I didn't watch this show in its first season, but recently rented the DVD's and blazed through the season in short order. This show is getting tremendous critical acclaim, which has in turn led to it garnering numerous Emmy nominations for its initial season. At first, I didn't see what all the fuss was about. But, upon watching through the 8th or so episode of season one, I began to understand and appreciate the very deliberate pace of story telling in play here. The creator of this series is a Sopranos alumnus (although he wrote the pilot for this series before his work on the Sopranos), and I've read elsewhere that quite a few of the artisans who worked on the Sopranos have come to work on this show. Suffice it to say that the look, the clothing, the furniture, and the attitudes all capture that period of the dawn of the 60's. And while this show isn't meant to be a time capsule that perfectly reflects the era, it's a wonderful backdrop for the characters that inhabit this universe.

The first episode of season 2 aired Sunday night, and was a wonderful opening of the second season. I highly recommend giving this show a tryout, but urge you to be patient, and allow the story to unfold at its own pace - patience is truly a virtue with this one! Here's some opinions from the staff of Variety regarding the first episode: http://weblogs.variety.com/on_the_air/2008/07/mad-men-for-tho.html#more

P.S. Apparently the ratings were very good for the first episode (by AMC standards, anyway).

THIS is the best show on TV, bar none!

I was hooked onto this show from the first episode I saw.
I actually didn't see this when it aired, but saw it on Comcast on-demand on HD (comcast didn't have AMC HD at that time). The visuals are stunning.
The characters are also very well developed. I guess when you like something, you really like it if you can relate to it in some way. I think Don Draper is a great character. As an example, the things that happen when his brother comes to meet him, how does he handle something that could potentially ruin his succesful life is very well done.
The ruthlessness and the deep down emotional play really touched me.
Other characters are also very well done, not to mention the 60's look and feel. It's simply great.

Yup. Just discovered this show along with "Curb Your Enthusiasm". Love them both.

By the way, all the S1 episodes are back on Comcast On-demand and those who have Comcast and want to watch this show, I recommend to watch it on HD.

Anyway to watch in HD on directv?

Amazing that with all the channels we have, to my knowledge we can't see this awesome show in HD.

I love this show, btw. It's so cool to peek in at this time in history where these characters are about to fall over the cliff and just don't know it. Fascinating to me as young man who loves history.

Anyway to watch in HD on directv?

Amazing that with all the channels we have, to my knowledge we can't see this awesome show in HD.

I love this show, btw. It's so cool to peek in at this time in history where these characters are about to fall over the cliff and just don't know it. Fascinating to me as young man who loves history.


Unfortunately, no. That said, I have all of S1 on the D* DVR (courtesy of DirectOnDemand). SD, and not great PQ overall at that, but still watchable.

Only place I ever witnessed MAD MEN in HD was thru Comcast OnDemand.

Would have thought it's be a contender for the T101 channel in HD.

http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/369/madmen_s1.html

The blu-ray look fantastic.

Only place I ever witnessed MAD MEN in HD was thru Comcast OnDemand.


TWC has that HD On Demand channel as well. I've been catching up on S-1 in HD (had to watch it in SD last summer) over the last few days. S-2 episodes are also up on that channel, with a one-day delay (i.e. Monday after Sunday's premiere on AMC).

This might be the only case where a lowly TWC customer has an HD choice the satellite guys don't. :eek:

Watching the bluray of S1 was fantastic; watching episode one of S2 in SD on my E* dvr stunk. Maybe soon E* will add AMC HD. Archiguy, I hope you and some of the more eloquent AVSers will take up the mantle and get a discussion going as the season rolls forward. This show is deserving of the examination.

Watching the bluray of S1 was fantastic; watching episode one of S2 in SD on my E* dvr stunk. Maybe soon E* will add AMC HD. Archiguy, I hope you and some of the more eloquent AVSers will take up the mantle and get a discussion going as the season rolls forward. This show is deserving of the examination.

I'm here for ya', Joseph. ;) Love, love, love this show.

Great show. Can't wait for the rest of the season!

Watching it on AMC-HD on Comcast Chicago here.

Great show. Can't wait for the rest of the season!

Watching it on AMC-HD on Comcast Chicago here.

I dunno - thought the season 2 premier was bit starved crap hd. Very disappointing. Had watched season 1 OnDemand and thought pq was much much better.

I dunno - thought the season 2 premier was bit starved crap hd. Very disappointing. Had watched season 1 OnDemand and thought pq was much much better.

You can still watch season 2 in HD OnDemand if you prefer OnDemand PQ. Last year Mad Men in HD OnDemand was the only way to watch it in HD in areas without AMC HD yet (which was probably everywhere in Comcastland last summer). At the time, I thought the PQ OnDemand was surprisingly decent, though not quite as good as the best Comcast channels, but that was before the 3-pack and the reduction of Comcast HD PQ on almost all of its HD channels.

After watching the season 2 premier on my DVR, I agree that the episode was bit-starved (it only took up 3% of my hard drive on my 3416, as opposed to the more typical 4% or the occasional 6%), though I wasn't as bothered by it as I am on Discovery or other channels. January Jones still looked sensational in lingerie :) But it does look a little better OnDemand, and in the future I will probably watch it that way despite the crudeness of the ff & rw buttons in OnDemand mode.

Which begs the question, why have an HD station at all if the only HD offerings (Mad Men, Breaking Bad) look better OnDemand than on the HD channel itself?

I dunno - thought the season 2 premier was bit starved crap hd. Very disappointing. Had watched season 1 OnDemand and thought pq was much much better.

Oh, yeah. Horrible quality. Especially compared to the SkyHD caps from Season 1.

Man, when will we ever learn to abandon decade-old codecs?

On my Comcast feed, I didn't detect any difference between the S1 On Demand HD and the S HD on AMC-HD.

Finally finished re-watching all the S-1 episodes in beautiful HD, as well as the first ep of S-2, thanks to AMC's generous usage of the HD On Demand channel (TWC). Really a different experience to watch it that way - DVD style - with multiple episodes in a row. I have a new appreciation of January Jones' brittle portrayal of Betty; you can practically see her start to become unhinged as suspicions and frustrations mount. Elizabeth Moss's Peggy also undergoes a transformation as her confidence rises (culminating in that rather shocking dressing down of another office girl who used to be her equal in the new ep). Still can't quite buy a woman going through an entire pregnancy without realizing she's been knocked up (wouldn't the baby's kicking and moving kinda' tip her off?). Of course, they're all overshadowed by the shear Force of Nature that is Christina Hendrick's Joan - criminally overlooked in the Emmy supporting actress category. She's consistently one of the best things about this show (or, should I say two best?) :p

Where the frak is S2E3 on HD ON DEMAND?!

Where the frak is S2E3 on HD ON DEMAND?!

There are other ways to get it if you missed out. :D

I just watched Season 1 last week On Demand (season 1 was going to end here in the SF Bay Area 8/10) and the first ep of Season 2.

The show is okay, personally I think it is over hyped. I know this might sound strange, but I really like the advertising stuff, but the other drama is a bit on the boring side IMHO. I wish there was more advertising stuff in the show, I loved when they brainstorm and we see their pitches to clients and allt hat. I only continued through the season and will watch season 2 (For now) because there is little on right now during the summer. It's a good summer show, but IMHO, doesn't have the chops to be fall tv viewing.

I guess what I am saying is that I can see why HBO passed, but now I am disappointed because this show could get a boost (albeit superficial and chauvanistically) with some nudity.

Particularly the worst moment so far in the show is the pregnancy. I too do not buy that she didn't know she was pregnant. So far in real life that only happens to the morbidly obese (generally speaking).
http://www.wbir.com/news/national/story.aspx?storyid=39229

More importantly, I groaned as "Mad Men" just had to go there and now bring in this baby drama crap. Worst aspect of the show in my book. Another thing is Vincent Kartheiser. I find him annoying, ever since I first saw him in his portrayal of Angel's son "Connor" on Angel.

BUT there are definitely a large number of great performances, from January Jones to Christina Hendricks to even John Slattery, and of course John Hamm.

I can't get full widescreen using other ways. Considering that AMC and TIME WARNER both said that they'd offer the episode on VOD in SD and HD starting the next day (and the standard version is available), I want my damn HD!

Where the frak is S2E3 on HD ON DEMAND?!

Oddly enough, Episode 3 popped up early Monday morning on our TWC HD Showcase On Demand channel, but Ep-2 never made it there the entire prior week, and still isn't there. Looks like I'll have to watch the second ep in SD on the regular On Demand channel. Thought I was done with that crap for this second season. :mad:

Oddly enough, Episode 3 popped up early Monday morning on our TWC HD Showcase On Demand channel, but Ep-2 never made it there the entire prior week, and still isn't there. Looks like I'll have to watch the second ep in SD on the regular On Demand channel. Thought I was done with that crap for this second season. :mad:All three are present on TWC/LA's VOD HD Showcase.

I still have yet to watch #202 and #203 in HD, since Olympics are currently a big distraction.

i thought there was no show last week since our time warner cable didn't add it to the HD showcase on-demand channel but then suddenly this week two episodes popped up.

both good episodes too.

All episodes to date have now shown up on the HD Showcase on Demand channel (TWC Charlotte). Episode 2 was delayed for some reason but got there about a week late.

This last episode was especially strong as we are witnessing the "rise of Peggy". She and Don share powerful secrets which will bind them together for the remainder of the series' run. It will be interesting to see the reactions of the other "account men" as she begins to pass them in terms of office success and prestige. Great performance by Jon Hamm during Don's awkward encounter with the now-married Rachael. He's taking hits from all sides now.

i agree.

there was also some funny stuff. i loved it when ken cosgrove was hitting on the new secretary and she asked him what his title was. title? i'm ken. cosgrove. and then the other guy busts in with his zipper antics.

Oh! I love Peter Campbell.

In Season One I hated him. I really hated him. Then I started to love to hate him. And now I just love him. One of the best parts of the show indeed.

Oh! I love Peter Campbell.

In Season One I hated him. I really hated him. Then I started to love to hate him. And now I just love him. One of the best parts of the show indeed.

For an actor, I would think that high praise indeed. He knows his character that much better this year, and the performances get that much more credible.

Oh! I love Peter Campbell.

In Season One I hated him. I really hated him. Then I started to love to hate him. And now I just love him. One of the best parts of the show indeed.

i love him too. howzabout that tennis outfit when they had to come into the office on a sunday.

i love him too. howzabout that tennis outfit when they had to come into the office on a sunday.
Boy that outfit was hard to watch!

i love him too. howzabout that tennis outfit when they had to come into the office on a sunday.

I almost spilled my drink when I saw that.

I know that he's not supposed to be the comic relief of the show but he makes me laugh a lot.

and then the other guy busts in with his zipper antics.

And no one EVEN thought it was "out of place" (pun intented). :D

And if Joan gets ANY hotter, Sterling will not be the only one with a heart attack! They are painting her skirts on now!

Now for the annoying bad news...

I was catching up on episodes 204 and 205 last night on HD Showcase (TWC/LA) and jumped out of my seat halfway through when they suddenly broke for a commercial interruption!

VIAGRA! With volume about three times louder than the program content!

Fortunately, there's FF on the remote.

Great show in HD!

(reminder: "Dexter" season 3 Sept.28)

I find that FF/RW when watching VOD is unreliable. It's not nearly as responsive as watching DVR content. You hit PLAY and by time the program stops FF, the commercial is long over.

I had to catch up with this show after Season 1 ended through a last minute DVD marathon, and although it initially appeared overrated to me, I thought it was quite good. Season 2, for me at least, has proven to be even better, and even more ambiguous with regard to its own morality, and I would have to give the edge so far to S2, particulalrly with respect to Draper's conflicted standards. I was pretty young back in this era of the 60's, but it certainly seems to reflect the atmosphere at the time that exiasted during my pre-teen years. it has become a must-watch show for me, and the most recent ep was a stellar example of its great writing.

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Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

Draper isn't conflicted at all. He's just a scumbag who does whatever feels good.

Draper isn't conflicted at all. He's just a scumbag who does whatever feels good.
He's a scumbag, but you haven't seen recent episodes if you think he isn't conflicted. Last night's episode was a particular example of the conflict he feels. In fact, the theme of the episode for many of the characters was summed up with the approach they chose for Playtex - two faces.

I've seen every episode.

He's a scumbag, but you haven't seen recent episodes if you think he isn't conflicted. Last night's episode was a particular example of the conflict he feels. In fact, the theme of the episode for many of the characters was summed up with the approach they chose for Playtex - two faces.
Yeah, I liked how they evolved what initially seemed like just an extraneous issue into the backbone of the episode, although the reference to Marilyn and Jackie being 'the same model' seemed like a "hello audience, did you get this' moment.

Alternatively, I thought that Duck's family story, and the symbolic gesture with the dog will probably lead to a crisis of conscience for both men, and I'm also getting a bad feeling that the swan dive in the opening credits may be coming to fruition for someone soon, and Duck seems a strong candidate at this point.

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Pallladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

I've seen every episode.

Oh well, you missed it! ;)

Alternatively, I thought that Duck's family story, and the symbolic gesture with the dog will probably lead to a crisis of conscience for both men, and I'm also getting a bad feeling that the swan dive in the opening credits may be coming to fruition for someone soon, and Duck seems a strong candidate at this point.

I would agree with this and if that plays out, it'll be poignant only because Don's pose in Duck's office was very similar to his laid back pose in the opening credits of MAD MEN: laid back with a cig in hand. Interestingly enough, that scene is probably the only scene in Season 2 so far where Don has actually been in control.

Draper isn't conflicted at all. He's just a scumbag who does whatever feels good.

I don't know that scumbag is the right word for Don. I would say opportunist. His childhood was pretty traumatic with the key word then being "survival". When he saw a chance to re-invent himself and leave Dick Wickman behind, he took it. He's been living that lie ever since. But I don't think he's ever set out to hurt anyone deliberately, which is closer to the definition of scumbag, IMO. Even with his brother Adam, he gave him some money and tried to send him on his way, but only after Adam kept pursuing him. Fascinating character, that's for sure.

I don't know that scumbag is the right word for Don. I would say opportunist. His childhood was pretty traumatic with the key word then being "survival". When he saw a chance to re-invent himself and leave Dick Wickman behind, he took it. He's been living that lie ever since. But I don't think he's ever set out to hurt anyone deliberately, which is closer to the definition of scumbag, IMO. Even with his brother Adam, he gave him some money and tried to send him on his way, but only after Adam kept pursuing him. Fascinating character, that's for sure.
I'd agree that "scumbag" is too strong, but also think "oppurtunist" may not be strong enough. If I had to narrow it down, I'd probably choose the admittedly ambiguous term "complex", because unless he's a sociopath, its a little difficult to comprehend how he can be entirely oblivious to what he's leaving in his wake. Now, does the 'survival' aspect somewhat mitigate his actions? Maybe. Unfortunately, that's one we won't be able to fully determine until the story is over.

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Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

It seems he lived a life of intense (emotional) pain as a young boy, and learned to numb himself to his surroundings in order to survive. He seems to be beginning to come out of the numbness (witness the closing scene with his daughter). He is complicated and damaged, all rolled into one. Doesn't excuse his behavior, but might explain it to some degree.

I know this is ultimately a Soap, but can we get a little meat with our dessert? I really tried to restrain myself during the last show but I was getting very irritated and wanted to tell the characters to get out of bed and do some work! I don't know why I found all the sex so irritating on the last show, I don't' mind it and even enjoy it on other shows, and even earlier in the series. Something here pushed my buttons, and I'm still angry/upset/bothered by it or I wouldn't post this topic which is ripe for off color comments. And to be honest I'm not really sure why it bothered me.

And to be honest I'm not really sure why it bothered me.

Maybe it was the S&M aspect? I would imagine that could push some peoples buttons.

No, not really, maybe it was just too much overall. As for S&M that was pretty mild even for basic cable.

Oh well just a thought. I was pretty satisfied with that particular episode I felt for the first time they were taking advantage of being on a cable network.

I know this is ultimately a Soap, but can we get a little meat with our dessert? I really tried to restrain myself during the last show but I was getting very irritated and wanted to tell the characters to get out of bed and do some work! I don't know why I found all the sex so irritating on the last show, I don't' mind it and even enjoy it on other shows, and even earlier in the series. Something here pushed my buttons, and I'm still angry/upset/bothered by it or I wouldn't post this topic which is ripe for off color comments. And to be honest I'm not really sure why it bothered me.

Maybe it bothers you for the reason it bothers me: I keep thinking about how if HBO didn't pass on this show, we'd have seen all these hotties naked! :D

And to be honest I'm not really sure why it bothered me.

I know why it bothered me. I wanted him to be tying up his new secretary, not the comedian's wife.

As for whether the term scumbag is applicable, I suppose that depends on if the viewer is a married woman. The fact that he screws around on his wife so often makes him scumbag #1 in my wife's eyes. So it really bugs her when I tell her that I want to be Don Draper when I grow up.

...just add that you'll probably never grow up! :p

I know why it bothered me. I wanted him to be tying up his new secretary, not the comedian's wife.

As for whether the term scumbag is applicable, I suppose that depends on if the viewer is a married woman. The fact that he screws around on his wife so often makes him scumbag #1 in my wife's eyes.

Ahh, so to paraphrase an old punchline, "we've established what he is, we're merely haggling over frequency". ;)

So it really bugs her when I tell her that I want to be Don Draper when I grow up.
Probably bugs her more that you're not John Hamm right now. :p :D

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Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

So it really bugs her when I tell her that I want to be Don Draper when I grow up.

Can't wait to assault your wife, huh?

:p

Much improved episode this week, more plot advancement, plus a little of the AD world again. That is really why I watch this show, for the small glimpse of the ad world of the 60's. Other than that aspect it's not much more than an average soap.

For all the attention to detail, I wondered what the writers were trying to say with the Drapers leaving all their trash in the park? I grew up in the 60's and my mother never would have considered doing that, that's the kind of thing "trashy" people did. It was a very obvious plot point for what ever reason.

Skip the Emmys. Give this show all the awards.

For all the attention to detail, I wondered what the writers were trying to say with the Drapers leaving all their trash in the park? I grew up in the 60's and my mother never would have considered doing that, that's the kind of thing "trashy" people did. It was a very obvious plot point for what ever reason.

I DO remember people dumping their trash where ever they were. The shot of Don throwing his STEEL beer can was a too common sight back then and when I saw it, I was appalled but then remembered that is way a lot of people did it. That is why the Iron Eye Cody spots of the the Keep America Beautiful "People Start Pollution, People Can Stop It" program was started. People have forgotten that. Too many years ago.

http://www.earthdaygirl.zoomshare.com/my_images/psa.jpg

Of course in this context, I believe the idea was to show how people dump on each other for various reasons. Nice tie in though.

[QUOTE=foxeng;14633374]I DO remember people dumping their trash where ever they were. QUOTE]

I don't have to remember it. I can see it every weekend at the local parks. Some people never learn.

Jimmy Barrett giving Don a smack down was the best scene of the series so far.

Jimmy Barrett giving Don a smack down was the best scene of the series so far.
Speaking of Barrett, has anyone seen or read something authoratative as to who (or whom, if an amalgam) he was modeled after, assuming he is a roman a clef. Based on the time frame and personality, there are a few candidates who could qualify, even if not an absolutely perfect fit.

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Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

For all the attention to detail, I wondered what the writers were trying to say with the Drapers leaving all their trash in the park? I grew up in the 60's and my mother never would have considered doing that, that's the kind of thing "trashy" people did. It was a very obvious plot point for what ever reason.


It seems to me that scene along with Barret's berating all tie together to point out that, even though he has money, a Caddy to show for it, and has assumed someone else's 'better' identity, he's ultimately still "trashy."

Speaking of Barrett, has anyone seen or read something authoratative as to who (or whom, if an amalgam) he was modeled after

I've always kind of assumed it was Don Rickles.

i've always kind of assumed it was don rickles.



+1

Rickles does know when to keep his mouth shut most of the time. I think Jimmy is a combination of Rickles, Youngman and maybe even a young Gleason with a dash of Lenny Bruce.

The actor playing him sure seems familiar but his name isn't familiar to me, Patrick Fischler.

The actor playing him sure seems familiar but his name isn't familiar to me, Patrick Fischler.
just look at the amount of roles in his Filmography--he's the definition of a character actor

http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0279209/

Lenny Bruce would have been my guess, but I have no idea what he was like off stage.

I've always kind of assumed it was Don Rickles.
That was my initial reaction as well. But there were so many guys who could fit Jimmy's personality type, I've got to wonder if Rickles is too obvious. Maybe I'm just over-thinking it.

Rickles does know when to keep his mouth shut most of the time. I think Jimmy is a combination of Rickles, Youngman and maybe even a young Gleason with a dash of Lenny Bruce.
Honestly, I can't imagine any advertiser in his right mind considering Lenny Bruce in that time era.




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Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

Honestly, I can't imagine any advertiser in his right mind considering Lenny Bruce in that time era.

Honestly, I can't think of any advertiser who would consider Jimmy Barrett!!

Honestly, I can't think of any advertiser who would consider Jimmy Barrett!!
Sure you can. ;) An insult comic (assuming he's not insulting the product) has a helluva lot more lattitude and wide appeal, than someone who is being controversial during tumultuous times in a polarized nation.

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Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

Sure you can. ;) An insult comic (assuming he's not insulting the product) has a helluva lot more lattitude and wide appeal, than someone who is being controversial during tumultuous times in a polarized nation.

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Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

COntroverial and insulting is one thing and yes, advertisers LOVE that because it makes them stand out. What they ABSOLUTELY will NOT stand for and Jimmy is a prime one, he is a loose canon. You NEVER know what he is going to say and if it is off the cuff, it is going to be nasty in a bad way. Advertisers will AVOID those pitch men at all costs. That is why Lenny Bruce or Richard Pryor would never be good pitch men. You know EXACTLY what you are getting. In advertising, you NEVER bite the hand that feeds you and Jimmy does.

boo! episode 207 still hasn't been added to our HDshowcase on demand channel here in hawaii. i wish oceanic time warner would add the regular AMC HD channel so i didn't have to wait for them to add the episodes each week.

boo! episode 207 still hasn't been added to our HDshowcase on demand channel here in hawaii. i wish oceanic time warner would add the regular AMC HD channel so i didn't have to wait for them to add the episodes each week.
HEY, quit your bitchin'. I only get SD AMC, and also have to live on the mainland. You'll get no sympathy here, bub! :p

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Palladin

yeah, could be worse i guess. i did used to live in galveston, tx after all. at least my tv is still above sea level, even if there is no hd mad men on it.

Skip the Emmys. Give this show all the awards.

Told ya.

It should also be noted that this is the first series on basic cable to win Outstanding Series.

Christina Hendricks at the Emmys. (http://theblemish.com/2008/09/christina-hendricks-at-the-emmys/)

Christina Hendricks at the Emmys. (http://theblemish.com/2008/09/christina-hendricks-at-the-emmys/)

I believe that is an Christina-clipse...do not look directly at it.

Why isn't AMC in HD on D*? The Emmy winner for best drama is not in HD; how pathetic.

Well, The Wire was never in HD and it was the best TV series ever.

Well, teh SHow is in HD, DirecTV is just lame and not letting us have it.

I assume that this past week was not a new show? It looks that way from the AMC site, but I had a weird cancelled event on my DVR from last week.

No new show, I assume due to the Emmys.

I didn't watch this show last season. Not normally a fan of SD shows ("The Wire" and "Curb Your Enthusiasm" notable exceptions).

But now that TWC/LA provides it in HD on their VOD -> HD Showcase, I'm all caught up and hooked. Watched all of season 1 over a weekend before it disappeared from VOD, and am a current viewer (one day late) up-to-date in HD for season 2.

Great show. And thankful that TWC/HD (and AMC, obviously) presents it this way, even if AMC-HD is not available as a channel to me.

No new show, I assume due to the Emmys.

Exactly right; AMC didn't want to compete with the Emmys so they delayed the next new episode until Sunday 9/28.

This also allows them to run their eight episode Season Two "catch-up" marathon today (9/25).

This also allows them to run their eight episode Season Two "catch-up" marathon today (9/25).
Do they ever rerun S1? Or is OnDemand or DVD the only options?

They reran Season one right before this current season started, so I bet it will be on again, but not for a while. Maybe they will do both of them prior to Season 3.

In what has been a virtuoso performance series, last night impressed me as probably the best episode to date. The poignant downfall of Fred Rumsen, through the manuvering of Duck and the other sharks to backstab him in order to better their position and salaries, Betty's continuing descent into depression, Roger's betrayal of Don to Mona so that he could try to cover his own ass, Peggy's ascent in conflict with her mixed emotions (BTW, when is she finally going to start dressing in accord with that 'power' position?), the motivation behind Betty's lunch 'set-up' and the maid's urging, the secret affair between Roger and Don's secretary that will likely lead to a a scism between the 2 men down the road, Jimmy Barret's come-uppance, etc., etc., etc.,

And the practically impossible feat of squeezing all of this into an hour long show. Wow. Kudos to the creative team and the cast.

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Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

The poignant downfall of Fred Rumsen, through the manuvering of Duck and the other sharks to backstab him in order to better their position and salaries

I've never worked for a company where you could get away with pissing yourself and passing out drunk five minutes before a client meeting. That would result in summary firing almost everywhere. It hardly seems like backstabbing to report that to management. The fact that they gave him a 6 month salary to work things out seems more gracious than most companies would be today. As much as I hate Campbell's character, he did the right thing in this situation, even if his motivation was bad.

I've never worked for a company where you could get away with pissing yourself and passing out drunk five minutes before a client meeting. That would result in summary firing almost everywhere. It hardly seems like backstabbing to report that to management. The fact that they gave him a 6 month salary to work things out seems more gracious than most companies would be today. As much as I hate Campbell's character, he did the right thing in this situation, even if his motivation was bad..
Well, I've never heard of anyone getting drunk or pissing themselves in the office cduring business hours, period. And I've never worked in an office where alcohol was present the way it is at this firm, either. Usually, that kind of stuff is saved for the office party.

And I get the impression that Rumsen was a guy who was mostly out on the road glad-handing on behalf of the advertising firm, and apparently helped them build their initial client case up by wining and dining the clients. So, one might say that they helped to create or exacerbate his condition.

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Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

boo! episode 207 still hasn't been added to our HDshowcase on demand channel here in hawaii. i wish oceanic time warner would add the regular AMC HD channel so i didn't have to wait for them to add the episodes each week.

well they never did add episode 207. they added eppies 208 and 209 so i'll have to catch the lost episode some other time.

WOw, this show is so good. And each week they give us some last minute littel detail that make syou crave another episode, but at the same time avoiding the obvious soap opera feel of it.

I guess I've not been around, many, or any, real drunks. I really thought Rumsen was having an epileptic seizure. I thought that would be a very interesting twist. Did they even have drugs to control it in the 60's? Would he get fired becasue he was sick, I guess so, no workplace regulations back then.

You know, I thought Seizure as well when it happened. Most drunks collapse on the floor or something, but he was standing there, frozen and had no idea what happened. Might be an interesting twist for later.

Wait a sec...so who is Roger leaving his wife for? The redhead or the Draper's young secretary? I figured it can't be the redhead since she's engaged. Can anyone confirm? Thx.

Wait a sec...so who is Roger leaving his wife for? The redhead or the Draper's young secretary? I figured it can't be the redhead since she's engaged. Can anyone confirm? Thx.

I thought it was pretty clear just based upon Roger's apology and Don's response-----Don's secretary.

_________________________________________________
Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

Wait a sec...so who is Roger leaving his wife for? The redhead or the Draper's young secretary? I figured it can't be the redhead since she's engaged. Can anyone confirm? Thx.

It has been over between Roger and Joan for a while. Remember, season 2 picks up 18 months after season 1 and Rogers hear attack and his going back to his family ending the affair and when Joan tried to fire Don's secretary a few episodes ago, Roger swooped in and saved her job and took an "interest" in her and she has been feeding Roger info on Don ever since. That is how Roger knew about the issues with Betty and Don, she had been backfilling him particularly after Don spurned her after the "shirt" thing early on in the episode.

Funny how the boss of the company was trying to explain to his employee to about why his wife blames him for their split and how the employee made a demand on the boss to remove the secretary as if the boss was an underling. That scene says a lot.

It has been over between Roger and Joan for a while. Remember, season 2 picks up 18 months after season 1 and Rogers hear attack and his going back to his family ending the affair and when Joan tried to fire Don's secretary a few episodes ago, Roger swooped in and saved her job and took an "interest" in her and she has been feeding Roger info on Don ever since. That is how Roger knew about the issues with Betty and Don, she had been backfilling him particularly after Don spurned her after the "shirt" thing early on in the episode.

Funny how the boss of the company was trying to explain to his employee to about why his wife blames him for their split and how the employee made a demand on the boss to remove the secretary as if the boss was an underling. That scene says a lot.
Actually, maybe closer to 'confirms' a lot might be more accurate.

For all intents and purposes, Don is the guy primarily responsible for the present and future of the firm, even if he's not a full partner, while Roger and his heart attacks are more of a senior mentor whose sun has risen and is starting to set in the midst of a mid-life crisis, i.e. Roger & the firm need Don more at this point, rather than vice-versa.

_________________________________________________
Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

another good episode last night.

does anyone know what the music was that played at the very end and over the closing credits?

This episode things turned for me. Don was a jerk for cheating, but last night I felt bad for him and really began disliking Betty. Talk about mixed messages.

another good episode last night.

does anyone know what the music was that played at the very end and over the closing credits?

Telstar by The Tornados.

The resemblance between the actor who played Betty's father and Senator John McCain was uncanny and unsettling.

The resemblance between the actor who played Betty's father and Senator John McCain was uncanny and unsettling.

That, sir, is your problem!

The resemblance between the actor who played Betty's father and Senator John McCain was uncanny and unsettling.

Same condition, too! ;)

That, sir, is your problem!

What exactly is my "problem" supposed to be?

Great episode -
I was kind of taken by surprise how Betty took advantage of Don. She called him up when she was in trouble and he immediately was ready to go with her. She took his help, spent night with him, got emotional support and finally once they were back, asked him to leave.
What's going on with the kid and Betty ? Certainly the kid is infatuated with her. But what's Betty's game ?

What's going on with the kid and Betty ? Certainly the kid is infatuated with her. But what's Betty's game ?

I find this whole thing a bit creepy. She knows that the kid is jones-ing after her and she lets him hold hands with her. She's just as screwed up as the kid.

Telstar by The Tornados.

nice, thanks!

Betty's emotional maturity is about the same as a 10-year old kid, so we shouldn't really be surprised that she connects with him (despite how inappropriate it may be). Given her background, can't say that I blame her.

Another good episode. And I didn't miss Betty!

Really funny when the European guy said that he was gay and they showed the reactions from everyone.

Another good episode. And I didn't miss Betty!

Really funny when the European guy said that he was gay and they showed the reactions from everyone.

Wonderful episode. Yes, the reaction from everyone was simply great, from uncomfortable to bewilderment. And I think Harry Crane's expression was priceless :D

So much happening, it doesn't seem like just one episode at all.

I have a feeling something sinister might have happened during Don's absence in New York. (I don't watch previews of next episode)

Wonderful episode. Yes, the reaction from everyone was simply great, from uncomfortable to bewilderment. And I think Harry Crane's expression was priceless :D

So much happening, it doesn't seem like just one episode at all.

I have a feeling something sinister might have happened during Don's absence in New York. (I don't watch previews of next episode)

You think...?? let's see. Don has done practically nothing job-related on the West coast, he's having a mid-life crisis, Thanks to Duck, an underling, who Don has crossed swords with in the past, the firm may be about to adopt the position of a sattelite, with a co-comittant change in the balance of power that may end up neutering Don as a result, and he has been reduced to the cliche of a cardboard character who is liked by eurotrash for being 'pretty' and generally having particularly nothing stupid to say. Oh, yeah, life is grand. :rolleyes:

OTOH, I agree it was impossible to take your eyes off Harry, as the 'closet' door kept threatening to open. ;)

________________________________________________
Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

You think...?? let's see. Don has done practically nothing job-related on the West coast, he's having a mid-life crisis, Thanks to Duck, an underling, who Don has crossed swords with in the past, the firm may be about to adopt the position of a sattelite, with a co-comittant change in the balance of power that may end up neutering Don as a result, and he has been reduced to the cliche of a cardboard character who is liked by eurotrash for being 'pretty' and generally having particularly nothing stupid to say. Oh, yeah, life is grand. :rolleyes:


Well, that's Don's professional life and it was shown anyway.
I was referring to his personal life - ever since the kid shouted - "I hate you", I have a feeling it will lead to some unpleasent occurance. What better occasion than when Don is out of town ? (I mean from the director's perspective, not from the kid's).
Anyway, just my thinking .... may not mean much. :)

Well, since the center of the show sort of is Don, who's to say the writers just wont dump New York and follow Don out to LA for a new life? That would be an interesting plot twist. He could take a few key people out there with him. Might be fun to explore LA in the early 60's.

Interesting note if you missed it -

during his phone conversation at the end of the episode, he called himself by his real name (Dick Whitman). Good question on who he called...

Well, since the center of the show sort of is Don, who's to say the writers just wont dump New York and follow Don out to LA for a new life? That would be an interesting plot twist. He could take a few key people out there with him. Might be fun to explore LA in the early 60's.

That would be a good plot twist, but I wonder whether it would happen, as it involves dumping almost the entire cast and start with new one.

Interesting note if you missed it -

during his phone conversation at the end of the episode, he called himself by his real name (Dick Whitman). Good question on who he called...


Honestly, I'd be amazed if anyone who watches the show regularly and knows anything about Don's back story, would have missed that.

____________________________________________________
Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

Another good episode. And I didn't miss Betty!

Really funny when the European guy said that he was gay and they showed the reactions from everyone.

It's funny you say that you didn't miss Betty. It's Peggy I can't stand. The more Betty the better in my book.

It's interesting how when the pressure's on, Don always goes back to his go-to play: disappearing and starting another life. He was willing to do it with Rachael. It almost seems as though he's ready to pack it in with Don Draper and either take off with the Eurotrash, whose freedom he greatly envies (the producers set up the perfect temptation for him: a callback to his encounters with the travelling hobos from his youth), or just go back to being Dick Whitman. Of course, that won't happen, he'll get a re-grip on himself, but how much of a shocker was that phone call?! :eek: And, of course, I'm sure everyone saw the mirror image to the opening theme final image with his (naked) Dick Whitman arm draped across the couch. The two sides of Don Draper. Brilliant piece of directing, that.

Jane is so taking advantage of Roger's "shore leave" impulses. Wonder if the show will take it all the way up to the wedding? Just please, no more "surprise pregnancies". Jane's too smart and ambitious for that (and the show's writers are probably too smart as well).

And to those that don't like Peggy... remember that she's the emotional center of the show, along with Don. In many ways, their life changes mirror each other. Peggy is growing all the more self assured and confident at work while Don's life unravels from the inside. Both are empty emotional shells that are looking for happiness in their personal lives to match their success professionally, but keep gloaming on to the wrong people. But one key difference is Peggy's success is being built with hard work from the ground up; Don has always been able to trade on his rugged good looks - his entire life has been a mirage, and is starting to come apart at the seams.

Poor Sal; trapped, like so many of the women in the show, in his gilded cage, born 20 years too soon. The look on his face as the object of his distant affection, Kenny, unleashes the full bore of his homophobia was heartbreaking. Cuban missile crises should be next up to serve as a metaphor for the Sterling Cooper crowd. Wonder how the writers will integrate that story?

35mm film
Kodak Vision2 500T 5218 stock
and used Primo prime lenses ranging from 35mm to 75mm

http://www.ascmag.com/magazine_dynamic/March2008/Television/page2.php

Poor Sal; trapped, like so many of the women in the show, in his gilded cage, born 20 years too soon. The look on his face as the object of his distant affection, Kenny, unleashes the full bore of his homophobia was heartbreaking.

20 years later would land him in the AIDS outbreak; maybe 40 years too soon...

It's funny you say that you didn't miss Betty. It's Peggy I can't stand. The more Betty the better in my book.

Peggy is perfect. She is the female version of Don. Like him, she has MANY things to hide and is recreating herself. She and Don are more alike than anyone else on that show. My bet is she becomes the women's libber Betty only dreams of.

My guess is Don comes to his senses in about 3 shows and decides being Don Draper isn't so bad after all. Problem is, he may not have a Don Draper life to come back to. Times changed quickly in '62 and '63.

My guess is Don comes to his senses in about 3 shows and decides being Don Draper isn't so bad after all. Problem is, he may not have a Don Draper life to come back to. Times changed quickly in '62 and '63.

Considering there's only 2 episodes left this season, it's gonna be a long wait to find out if you're right. :D

Friday's Jeopardy! is supposed to have a "Mad Men Tie In" (http://www.jeopardy.com/madmen). The Jeopardy! logo on that page is the one used in the original series' 1964-1975 run on NBC.

Friday's Jeopardy! is supposed to have a "Mad Men Tie In" (http://www.jeopardy.com/madmen). The Jeopardy! logo on that page is the one used in the original series' 1964-1975 run on NBC.

Clever. Jeopardy's viewers are the kind of educated, intelligent, but limited crowd that probably overlaps with Mad Men's educated, intelligent, but limited viewership. I'll tune in; heck, it may be the only Jeopardy category I'd ever have a chance to successfully complete. :D

Considering there's only 2 episodes left this season, it's gonna be a long wait to find out if you're right. :D

That is why I said 3. There is your cliff hanger!

Another great episode.

Kinda sad with Joan and her fiancee, will she cancel the wedding?
Really happy with that Peggy got the office. And her reply: "I got the office because I'm having sex with Don" or something like that. Do you think that could happen? I'd never think about that, that would be too complex but I guess Mad Men could pull it.

And I just love all of Don's backstory. He's such a complex character. The writers have created such a mythology around him.

Another great episode.

Kinda sad with Joan and her fiancee, will she cancel the wedding?

One would hope, unless she shares her fiancee's views on sexual assault, but she has gotten herself in a bit of a bind here.

Really happy with that Peggy got the office. And her reply: "I got the office because I'm having sex with Don" or something like that. Do you think that could happen?

It was most definitely a joke, as well as a slapdown of her male colleagues for the way they had treated her earlier on, and the formal assertion of her new status as a 'power that be'.

And I just love all of Don's backstory. He's such a complex character. The writers have created such a mythology around him.
Not that difficult once you've determined to make Don a symbolic icon for the 'lost generation' and its values.

________________________________________________
Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

For you Jon Hamm fans, he is hosting Saturday Night Live this Saturday 10/25.

Interesting choice for the first Mrs. Draper! Svetlana! Of course that isn't a total surprise. I wonder how many more ex-Soprano's cast we will see next season?

Interesting choice for the first Mrs. Draper! Svetlana! Of course that isn't a total surprise. I wonder how many more ex-Soprano's cast we will see next season?

Assuming there is a next season.

Remember there is no contract with Weiner, Hamm or Slattery at this point, or with the rest of the cast, either.

No matter which way you slice it, season three will be much more expensive to make than the past two seasons on the basis of salary alone.

I'm not sure if AMC will be able to afford it, nor if the contracts AMC and Weiner have would allow it to be taken to any other network.

http://www.tv.com/story/11743.html

Don Draper, '60s swagger coming back for season three, more Emmys; showrunner Matthew Weiner still unsigned.

The 2010 Emmys can begin carving "Mad Men" into some statuettes now. AMC has exercised its option to pick up critical favorite Mad Men for a third season--an obvious move, but only formally official now.

While that's all hunky-dory, there is still one major Mad Men season three detail that's up in the air...

Producer Lionsgate has yet to solidify a deal with Mad Men's showrunner, Matthew Weiner, says Variety. Weiner is only signed through the end of season two, and with Mad Men garnering so much universal acclaim, Weiner is looking to fatten his wallet a bit. Sure, it's possible that Lionsgate won't be able to reach a deal with Weiner, but don't count on it; the company would be insane not to pony up the cash to keep the creative force on board.

In fact, Variety says that Lionsgate is looking to lock up Weiner in a two-year deal so that AMC can pick up a fourth season of the show early.

As long as we get more Christina Hendricks on television, I don't care what it takes. Are you mad for Mad Men?


http://image.com.com/tv/images/genie_images/story/2008/m/madmen_christina1.jpg
AMC has--whoa, lost my train of thought.

Datelined two days after the tv.com story above:

There may not be any more "Mad Men" if deals aren't cut soon.

The popular cult series on AMC about the world of advertising in the early 60s is at a crossroads. Producer Lionsgate and network AMC not only have no contract with series creator Matthew Weiner, they don't have deals with the cast as well.

Whoops! There was a flurry of activity this morning as Lionsgate and AMC announced to the wire services that they wanted Weiner and the show back and were trying to make a deal.

But the reality is, the network has no agreements with stars Jon Hamm and John Slattery, or any of the other cast members. Hamm and Slattery were each nominated for Emmys this year, and Hamm won the Golden Globe last January (although that's not so hard to get if you're persistent and have a catering truck, but that's another story).

Hamm in particular poses a problem since he's turned into a huge break-out star. If "Mad Men" ended right now, the 36-year-old actor could go to movies and easily become the next George Clooney. This puts AMC and Lionsgate in a strange position to renegotiate Hamm's contract. It's going to cost them more than they've probably ever paid for anything.

As for Weiner and the show itself, if Lionsgate and AMC don't come up with the right deal, there's always the chance that "Mad Men" could wind up on another network. HBO would pay just about anything to take it given their disappointing schedule right now. It's unclear whether Weiner's original contract prohibited him from moving the show to his old stomping grounds--he wrote and produced on "The Sopranos"-- but there are plenty of other options including F/X, Showtime and the major networks.

Meanwhile, fans of "Mad Men" are on tenterhooks to see what happens next to Hamm's character, Don Draper. In last week's episode, Draper went AWOL in Palm Springs, Calif. with a girl he just met. As viewers know, Draper is already living what seems to be a "double life" and that his real name is Dick Whitman.

I'm told the next two episodes satisfying our curiosity, and that most of the show's loose ends will be tied up when the season ends -- in case there aren't any more.

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,440562,00.html

http://image.com.com/tv/images/genie_images/story/2008/m/madmen_christina1.jpgAMC has--whoa, lost my train of thought.Almost looks Photoshopped. Christina Hendricks must have put on 30 pounds since this photo.

wow. speechless. best show on tv. incredible, awesome, please give us season 3...

bravo!

Anybody watch SNL on Saturday, 10/25?

They did the Mad Men spoof (as I expected), but also had some surprises - Elizabeth Moss (Peggy Olsen) and John Slattery (Roger Sterling) made unannounced cameo appearances in the skit. Also, very funny bit, "Don Draper's Guide to Picking Up Women".

I'm so bummed...I moved this weekend, and DirectTV didn't come to put the antenna up at the new house until this morning. Missed the finale. Looks like they are repeating it on Nov. 2nd, so I guess I'll have to catch it then.

It's on VOD anytime.

vfx,
I seem to recall that AMC also reruns it in midweek (Wednesday, I believe), so check for that.

As for the show, great episode.

The bits on Saturday Night Live were good. Nice to see Slattery and Elizabeth Moss show up, but I wish they would have ditched the "recurring character" angle and just played it as a straight Mad Men sketch. If you're wondering why Slattery and Moss didn't have more lines (and you probably weren't), it's likely because they were last minute additions/substitutions to the show (that's how it's happened in the past with other cameos). Don Draper's guide to picking up women was brilliant. Highlight of the show.

-R

And another Emmy for that season, please.

Any word on a Season 3?

Almost looks Photoshopped. Christina Hendricks must have put on 30 pounds since this photo.

If you checked out the cast party special following the season 2 finale, you would have seen a Hendricks that looked a lot more like her old self than like Joan.

__________________________________________________
Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hr/content_display/news/e3i34f7f506b62f75e4928c7443946db31c

'Mad Men' finale exceeds last season's
2.9 mil viewers watch episode over three airings

By Kimberly Nordyke

Oct 27, 2008, 05:06 PM ET
http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hr/photos/stylus/44059-mad_men_341x182.jpg

"Mad Men" ended its second season on a high note.

Sunday's finale averaged 1.75 million total viewers at 10 p.m. Sunday, which was 89% higher than the tally for the drama's first-season finale (926,000) a year ago. Over three airings (10 p.m., 11 p.m. and 1 a.m.), the episode pulled in a total of 2.9 million viewers.

Compared with Season 1, "Mad Men's" sophomore run saw a 63% increase in total viewers (an average of 1.5 million viewers vs. 925,000), a 109% jump in the adults 18-49 demo (705,000 vs. 338,000) and an 81% increase in adults 25-54 (780,000 vs. 430,000).

AMC also said that 49% of the adults 25-54 viewers that tuned in during Season 2 have household incomes above $100,000, giving the show the strongest concentration of upscale viewers in that demo than any other original scripted series on basic cable.

While still modestly rated, the series has generated a great deal of buzz and critical acclaim, including becoming the first basic cable program to win a major series category at the Primetime Emmys with its best drama trophy in September. While it has yet to be renewed for a third season as series producer Lionsgate negotiates a new deal with creator/executive producer Matthew Weiner, all parties expect a pickup.

This weekend was a busy one for the "Mad Men" contingent: Along with the season finale, star Jon Hamm hosted NBC's "Saturday Night Live," and his co-stars Elisabeth Moss and John Slattery made special appearances during the late-night sketch-comedy show.

Interesting choice for the first Mrs. Draper! Svetlana! Of course that isn't a total surprise. I wonder how many more ex-Soprano's cast we will see next season?
So, that was Tony's Russian woman? My wife guessed that, but I wasn't sure. I guess there aren't that many one-legged actresses around? ;)

The season finale was one of the best episodes I have seen on this series. I am anxiously waiting what is in store after the "merger".

I think I'll stick with my prediction of a shake up. Don's comments of not having a contract really shook Duck. Either the merger will go away, or Don might. Don has a habit of reinventing himself, why not once again?

I would guess Duck is "cooked" and he knows it now. His little "performance" at the meeting sealed his fate with LLP. You don't embaress the new owners the way he did. It shows Duck isn't as much in control as he thinks he is. To be asked out of your own meeting isn't a good sign. Of course it all may be moot if Weiner doesn't come back next season and the show moves in a different direction.

One thing is for sure, there WILL be a 3rd season, but who is running the show is still up in the air at this point. AMC has a deal with Lionsgate to do the show so that will happen, but Lionsgate doesn't have a deal with Matt Weiner yet who in all honesty wants some David Chase/HBO Soprano's type super contract with 10 mil a year and marketing rights and all kinds of "other stuff "contract and that is where the problem lies at this point. Both sides think they have the other side over a barrel. Lionsgate has already started looking for someone else to run the show (Sorkin's name has surfaced) if they can't get Weiner signed up. Time will tell.

Interesting choice for the first Mrs. Draper! Svetlana! Of course that isn't a total surprise. I wonder how many more ex-Soprano's cast we will see next season?


I checked the credits on this, and the names don't match up. I admit they seem the same, but unless the actress who played Svetlana changed her name (or the credits are wrong), it's not the same person.

-R

Lionsgate has already started looking for someone else to run the show (Sorkin's name has surfaced)

I'll take it!

In light of what I have read about the uncertain future of the show I think Don's no contract speech and walking out was the producers' way of getting a "dig" at AMC.

I'll take it!

I won't. Sorkin might occasionally write a great script, but his self-indulgence would kill this series (which is exemplary when it comes to nuanced and subtle details in writing, cinematography, acting etc.. to complete the main story arcs).

I won't. Sorkin might occasionally write a great script, but his self-indulgence would kill this series (which is exemplary when it comes to nuanced and subtle details in writing, cinematography, acting etc.. to complete the main story arcs).

x2.

x2.

X3 to the tenth power. Bring on Sorkin = audience walkin' ;)

___________________________________________
Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

Oh, that's right. It's cool to hate on Sorkin now. Silly me. Hang him!!!

When was it ever not cool? ;)

I would guess Duck is "cooked" and he knows it now. His little "performance" at the meeting sealed his fate with LLP. You don't embaress the new owners the way he did. It shows Duck isn't as much in control as he thinks he is. To be asked out of your own meeting isn't a good sign. Of course it all maybe mute if Weiner doesn't come back next season and the show moves in a different direction.

One thing is for sure, there WILL be a 3rd season, but who is running the show is still up in the air at this point. AMC has a deal with Lionsgate to do the show so that will happen, but Lionsgate doesn't have a deal with Matt Weiner yet who in all honesty wants some David Chase/HBO Soprano's type super contract with 10 mil a year and marketing rights and all kinds of "other stuff "contract and that is where the problem lies at this point. Both sides think they have the other side over a barrel. Lionsgate has already started looking for someone else to run the show (Sorkin's name has surfaced) if they can't get Weiner signed up. Time will tell.

There was a line in that scene where one character says ' you get the keys on Friday'. That suggests that the deal while done is not completely finalized and I am sure some 'quirk' (cooking the books?) will come up which will render the 'deal' not done. As I have been in this situation I know that there is a definite timepoint where the deal is done and everything changes at that point. Clearly they have not reached that point yet.

Assuming Season 3 is made, where will the start point be? They jumped from (somewhere in) 1960 to around Valentine's Day 1962 to start season 2.

The idea was to have each season start in two year jumps, so the new season would start sometime in 1964 - which means the merger would long be in place, the Cuban Missile crisis would be long over (as would the Kennedy assassination) and there might be talk about Vietnam, the upcoming World's Fair and the "new" National League baseball team (Mets).

Does the jump still work?

It will depend on who is running the show at the time they start to write the third season. All bets are off right now.

Oh, that's right. It's cool to hate on Sorkin now. Silly me. Hang him!!!


Would you prefer we hang you, instead? :p

In light of what I have read about the uncertain future of the show I think Don's no contract speech and walking out was the producers' way of getting a "dig" at AMC.
Interesting notion, but a bit off-base.

The studios and production companies have continuing incestuous relationships with each other, and a public 'I told you so' rebuff, particularly as transparent as the one you're suggesting, would not bode well for future joint projects. Its bad form and an unecessarily stupid business play, with little to gain under the circumstances.

IOW, that was pure Don. When you boil it down for purposes of comparison, Don is much like Chauncy Gardner of 'Being There'. There is a very mystical aspect to his insight into the nature of other people, on a much more innate and primal level than even he probably fully understsnds. And because of his physical presence and paucity of words, he has evolved into a persona that is greater than the sum of its parts. And there are times when even he seems unsure of the sanctity of his mojo.

I expressed concern a couple of weeks back in response to someone elses post, with regard to Don's future under the inevitably jealous thumb of Duck The ' (fill-in an appropriately rhyming term) '. ;)

Fortunately, Duck was arrogant enough in the meeting to overplay his hand and display his vitriol towards Don, thereby neutering his own credibility and rendering himself suspect with the other partners for any future pissing matches with Don. Again, Don's instincts prevailed, and Duck suceeded in losing his temper and proving beyond any doubt, that Duck and his temperament was entirely unsuitable for the position. When Don played his grand gesture of announcing that he did not have a contract, and had not entered into the merger agrrement, the wind behind Duck's sails unexpectedly ceased, and it became painfully clear that he was neither talented enough to pull his weight in the creative or accounts depts, nor did he have the necessary people skills to be effective management.

________________________________________________
Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

Does anyone believe that this "negotiation posturing" is anything other than Weiner/AMC/Lionsgate trying to generate some interest for MAD MEN beyond its loyal viewing audience?

I think all parties involved know they've got a good thing going. After the disastrous writers' strike (the effects of which are still being felt by cast and crew alike), I don't think anyone wants to rock the boat.

As for the Duck/Don thing, I think Duck's out of the new company. Don put the owners into a position where they have to choose between Don and Duck. Duck's plan hinged on Don not being able force that decision. Obviously, he was wrong.

-R

And remember...

It was Don who was featured on Saturday Night Live, not Duck! :D:D:D

Does anyone believe that this "negotiation posturing" is anything other than Weiner/AMC/Lionsgate trying to generate some interest for MAD MEN beyond its loyal viewing audience?
Not for one damned second. Honestly, folks, a little more thinking it through can go a long way. If all the articles, accolades, awards and buzz concerning this remarkable program isn't sufficient to draw the others in, why would you think that J6P is going to give a rat's ass over price haggling between studios/companies?

Scene from a JP6 poker evening:

"Ya, know what really burns my ass besides a flame this HIGH ?"

Its those poor damn sonuvabitches that have to negotiate those incredibly overinflated salaries for the creative cast and crew. Hell, I'm planning to empty out the $200.00 I've saved from my pension plan that's going belly up, to buy coal to put in the x-mas stockings hanging on the mantlepiece for the kids. Because I'm an AMERICAN! :rolleyes:

Oh, and remember kids, look for the Union label and don't copy content, because its the same as PIRACY !!! (yo, ho, ho) :rolleyes:

__________________________________________________
Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

Meh. The only buzz out there about MAD MEN is from "contract negotiations." If the people in charge (including Weiner) are silly enough to let money foul this up, then screw 'em.

This could be a situation where this show has simply gotten too big for AMC.

Weiner must feel that as the creator of a show with this kind of success, he deserves a certain level of compensation. I would think that he knew what he was getting into when he agreed to make Mad Men for a basic cable channel, but maybe he never counted on this level of success. AMC may not be able to hold on to a show this hot, it may be just too expensive. May be time to move to the big leagues.

If that ends up being the case, let's hope that MAD MEN will be one of those rare series that loses nothing when it moves to another network (God forbid it end up being yet another show that has me wondering what the creators were thinking airing it on a particular network to begin with, like anything on CBS that isn't a Bruckheimer procedural).

It has been reported that Mad Men was originally intended for HBO and the HBO budget and when HBO passed on it, AMC jumped on it and I would agree that I don't think AMC know what they were getting into and now they have a tiger by the tail. Can't let go, but can't hang on either. Bottom line is the AMC deal is done and it has been renewed so it will be there. The only question now is how much money is Lionsgate willing to make or loss on this with AMC. My guess is if they could move MM to HBO or Showtime for more money they would but with ink dry on contracts, that is not happening now.

Of course it all maybe mute... With all respect...

"of course it all may be moot..."

With all respect...

"of course it all may be moot..."

Typing too fast and too sleepy! Thanks.

Please oh please let this end up on HBO. We need to see the fine ladies of Mad Men nude. Hopefully nobody is too prudish or high of themselves to give us full frontal like Julie Benz (Rita) in Dexter.

For a show that is only watched by just over 2 million people, there sure are tons of homages and parodys popping up everywhere. Jeopardy!, SNL, The Simpsons Treehouse of Horror XIX, who knows where else? My wife and I were wondering what people who have no idea of Mad Men think when they see stuff like that.

For a show that is only watched by just over 2 million people, there sure are tons of homages and parodys popping up everywhere. Jeopardy!, SNL, The Simpsons Treehouse of Horror XIX, who knows where else? My wife and I were wondering what people who have no idea of Mad Men think when they see stuff like that.
Hmmm. :confused: I wrote a response to this, but either forgot to post it or it was 'disappeared' (w/all due respects to Joseph Heller)

They don't 'think' anything, because the joke either goes over their head, or they have no frame of reference for purposes of interpretation. It can often be a "what was that supposed to mean moment". Most of those jokes aren't really directed to a general audience, but rather more often to other members of the industry to enjoy, because they WILL get the reference.

Keep in mind that 2 million people do not make up a huge percentage of the viewing public in the U.S.

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Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

So, that was Tony's Russian woman? My wife guessed that, but I wasn't sure. I guess there aren't that many one-legged actresses around? ;)

The season finale was one of the best episodes I have seen on this series. I am anxiously waiting what is in store after the "merger".

Great catch. We all know that Weiner cut his teeth on the Sopranos, so it makes sense that some cast member would show up on Mad Men.

Two times this year Mad Men events reminded me very much of the events near the end of the Sopranos: the car crash (both times I knew a crash was coming; I half expected Don Draper to suffocate Bobbie afterwards), and Don's trip to Palm Springs echoing Tony's trip to Las Vegas.

Even the name "Don" has Sopranos connotations.

That's not the same actress. And other than the blonde hair, I don't see the resemblance. I think some people are mis-remembering Tony's Russian woman (who was a brunette) by sticking her face on the actress who played her blonde cousin (who had a prosthetic leg) and was taking care of Tony's mother.

"Mad Men," true to its milieu, is shot on film -- three-perf Super 35. Chris Manley is the second season's DP and former "Sopranos" DP, Phil Abraham, just received an Emmy for his work on the "Mad Men" pilot.

Each 48-minute episode is produced on a seven-day schedule - and then there's the post.
While TV episodics once generated about 45 minutes of dailies, McCormick recalls, today's shows create two hours or more per day.

Dailies pass through Laser's Thomson Spirit 2K and get a one-light on a da Vinci 2K color corrector.
Dailies are mastered to HDCam SR
Tim Vincent performs "Mad Men's" final color correction on Lustre at Laser Pacific. McCormick describes Lustre's nonlinear color correction as "pretty remarkable. It's Photoshop on steroids; it has kind of unlimited window opportunities, unlimited layers.


AUDIO
Final sound is done at Todd AO Hollywood with supervising sound editor Jason George and Ken Teaney and Geoff Rubay. All the show's sounds - including background ambience - receive the same "obsessive attention to detail" right up to the last moment the episode is delivered.



A minimum of 840 minutes of footage to edited down to 48 minutes. a 17:1 shooting ratio is really nice.

Pretty much state of the art quality for an tv series. 35mm film negative on a Spirit2K to HDCamSR.

from:
http://www.postmagazine.com/ME2/dirmod.asp?sid=&nm=&type=Publishing&mod=Publications%3A%3AArticle&mid=8F3A7027421841978F18BE895F87F791&tier=4&id=9568ED032C1C4269A9530661B6700794
October 1, 2008

Pretty much state of the art quality for an tv series. 35mm film negative on a Spirit2K to HDCamSR.


State of the art would be shooting on a Sony F35 directly to SR tape. But shooting on film helps the look of the period. It just wouldn't feel like the 60s with pristine HD video.

State of the art would be shooting on a Sony F35 directly to SR tape. But shooting on film helps the look of the period. It just wouldn't feel like the 60s with pristine HD video.

vfxproducer,
state of the art for an 1080p finished show yes. Sony F35
http://pro.sony.com/bbsc/ssr/product-F35/

'Mad Men' is shot on 35mm film. This is an artistic and aesthetic choice by the producers. Obviously these days producers _DO_ have choices to get a 35mm feel with limited depth of field but shooting on digital (Sony F23, Sony F35, Panavision Genesis, Arri D20, Red One).
Shooting on the Super35 format and telecined to HDCAM SR with a Spirit 2K is state of the art 'for shooting on 35mm'. That's all I was getting at.

A TV show like 'Gossip Girl' is a great example of how good it _CAN_ look. My example here is for PQ only not content.
'Gossip Girl' tech specs here:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14855619#post14855619


There has been a lively ongoing discussion since June of the artistic film grain with a film-based tv show here:
Film Grain Allowed - Artistic Intent Thread
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1037935

We all know that film-based TV programs will dwindle down to a handful in the next 5 years. Feature films with A-list actors may still be contractually obligated to shoot on 35mm film for the next 10 years. Eventually they will also go to digital cinematography capture.