The pilot definitely lived up to the reviews it received, you can see why this show was as aclaimed as its been. Very original idea, and I love the innocent feel the show has, nice when pretty much every other drama on network TV is cluttered with action, trends, rich lifestyles....etc

What does everyone else think, or at least those who watched on CTV-HD this evening?

Well, it doesn't premiere until tomorrow in the US, but I'm looking forward to watching it in HD then.

Well, it doesn't premiere until tomorrow in the US, but I'm looking forward to watching it in HD then.
Same here. Unfortunately I think I read something somewhere (maybe HOTP) about cost overruns and assorted other problems which kind of suggested that the pilot, and more particularly the aesthetics did not continue to live up to the standard of the premiere.

One of the very few new series that I've had any real interest in viewing.

___________________________________________________
Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

good thing someone posted this, I forgot about Pushing Daisies! I'm looking forward to seeing what all the buzz is about...

one thing is for sure: this show's LOOK is terrific. I hear they spent a ton of money on the pilot.

I read a very good article about PD in the local paper today. Sounds like it could be very interesting and quite HD friendly. I'll definitely be watching... if I can tear myself away from Kid Nation ;).


ron

I'll definitely be watching... if I can tear myself away from Kid Nation ;).
I hope you're not watching to see kids drinking bleach - I hear that stuff was cut out.... ;)

It wasn't bad and some of the best HD PQ I've ever seen on ABC.

I had high hopes but the show just felt like it was trying to hard. I like the other stuff Bryan Fuller has done (Dead Like Me, Star Trek, Heroes) but this doesn't quite live up. The dialogue was just way to overdone. It was all to "witty" for its own good. I usually love shows like this but for me it didn't do it. It wasn't horrible, it just didn't live up to what I had hoped. I am going to give it a chance but its not one of my favorites so far this season.

I thought the pilot was fantastic, if the rest of the episodes are half as good, I'll continue watching.

I'll be utterly amazed if this doesn't get canceled in four weeks. It's just too out there.

The pilot had Barry Sonnenfelds fingerprints all over it and it was definitely a Bryan Fuller script. Two things combined which are guaranteed to fracture audiences. Sonnenfelds direction is too animated and exaggerated for me sometimes and the pilot was pushing his style to my limits. I'll be interested to see how much of that they carry over into regular episodes.

I liked it though. It's definitely not something I've seen before and I really liked Chi McBride in it.

It was different and I did like it but it did not blow my socks off like I was lead to believe, I will watch again but I would not be surprised if this is off the off the air by November.

The narration gave a very "fairy tale" feel too it. Very original, and plot aside, the PQ was absolutely stunning.

Something to pass the hour...a little for goofy for my tastes.

I thought it returned to many of themes from Dead Like Me and improved upon them. After the hideous coming home / family backstory from DLM -- which did a lot to torpedo that show -- Pushing Daisies did a better job.

Pushing Daisies looks a lot like a second try at DLM. Similar young female struck down in her prime while wasting her youth. Dear Jeebus -- the female lead even has a guy's name!

Obviously, The Pie Hole is a pretty clear one-for-one of Der Waffle House.

I liked the Sonnenfeld touches. It keeps the show from treading too Burtonesque. A sense of whimsy. Maybe a little overdone with the Walgreen's commercial narrator.

But, compared to most of what's on TV, and especially when the competition is Kid Nation (can it please die already so Jericho can return?!) and Kitchen Nightmares (an OK enough show) and Howie "How Long Can the Suitcase Game Last" Mandel...

It's definitely worth a few more weeks.

Pushing Daisies looks a lot like a second try at DLM. Similar young female struck down in her prime while wasting her youth. Dear Jeebus -- the female lead even has a guy's name!


Of all the names they could have picked, they had to pick Chuck. Every time they said it my mind was back on NBC.

addendum: very appealing artsy style to say the least. Those daisy hills with the deep blue sky really shined in HDTV.

The name Chuck sure is popular in TV and movies this year (Chuck & Larry, Good Luck Chuck, Chuck).

didn't have high expectations for this show, just wanted to see the HD goodness but not only was the PQ good (and as another topic points out, beautiful without the ads for upcoming shows) but I liked the story too. Probably will get canceled but I'll enjoy it while it lasts...

Liked but not loved the show...

For those raving about the PQ, did you see it in 1080i? I get ABC in only 720p.

The thought that this is a kid's show never left my mind since the narration kept reminding me of Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events. However, nice, bright colors can't make up for a lack of a compelling story. I can see how each episode will be - talk to the dead guy and solve the mystery, however the lead can never get the girl. There was a lot of hype about this show and it fell far, far short of expectations.

Wow, ABC sure has some winners this season with Cavemen, Carpoolers, and Pushing Daisies. :rolleyes: NBC comes out as the champ this fall.

it looked outsanding and i loved the way it was told (the whole narration, big fish feel) but i didnt think the story/premise held up.

Ya deffinatly reminded me of Dead Like Me a little too much but with the limited shows I care about I will have to stick it out see where it goes.

Excellent picture quality -- not gritty or too dark for most of the episode (save for the auntie house scenes). Show is interesting, but how do you amp it up to be a regular series will be interesting?

I wish more shows weren't so 'dark' on the imagery so that it would really let the HD format shine.

Rasheed

Ya deffinatly reminded me of Dead Like Me a little too much but with the limited shows I care about I will have to stick it out see where it goes.

We had a similar discussion on the Reaper thread, where I really wondered who the heck thought DLM and Reaper compared. DLM, at least the first season, had a generally sweet tone that was hidden underneath the attitude and non-stop F bomb.

I get the feeling that Sonnenfeld put some of his own touches on Bryan Fuller's idea here. Considering that both DLM and Wonderfalls were failures (watch DLM season two before commenting that it was undeservedly killed before its time).

I can't escape the impression that Pushing Daisies is closer (or at least more refined) to what Fuller wanted from those previous two shows that went up this alley.

BTW, the whimsy and animation shouldn't all be blamed on Sonnenfeld. There's some of Wonderfalls creeping into this show. Hopefully not so much that is poisons it.

And finally... a question:

Does the dark haired female lead have a Zooey Deschanel quality or is it me?

We enjoyed it; will probably be the only new show, along with 'The Bionic Woman' we season-pass this season. We really loved, loved, loved 'Wonderfalls' which had a much higher humor-quotient but not the initial buzz to get people to tune in that this show has had. In a way, it will be a shame if this show makes it and 'Wonderfalls', a better show IMO, had such a painfully brief, shining run.

But I think this show is vastly superior to 'Dead Like Me' which flamed out spectacularly in its second season after Fuller left to work on 'Wonderfalls'. Anyway, I expected something more, I dunno, whimsical here. The procedural element drags it away from the full-on fable I was hoping for and saps the humor.

For those raving about the PQ, did you see it in 1080i? I get ABC in only 720p.
That's probably because ABC network broadcasts in 720p, not 1080i.

At any rate, I really enjoyed it. The backstory stuff from his childhood was fantastic and I enjoyed the quirky feel of the show. If it continues like this, I'll keep watching.

Probably the one element that would really add to the show would be the "Rube Goldberg" style of deaths from DLM. Those were a lot of fun.

Well, the aesthetic part of this show is a no-brainer, frequently gorgeous to watch, apparently taking its rather obvious cue from the saturated, but startling Robin Williams' "What Dreams May Come" film, which perhaps more so than not, was the reason it was one of the very few new series I was excited to see. However, as much as I love its looks, its going to need more than that to survive. Lost is equally lush in a different sense, but with a much stronger plot device.

Quirky is all well and good, but I think serious effort will be required to keep this show consistently fresh and amusing. I'm a big fan of Chi McBride, but he seems to be phoning his performance in on this, perhaps to compensate for the whimsy of the other characters. Don't ask me why, but it kind of reminds me of how another character actor, Dennis Franz, became at some point in his career.

Female lead...good with the right kind of sparkle for this kind of fantasy. Male lead, I think is okay, but I think they're trying for the kind of droll amusement that few other than Cary Grant can really pull off, a tough act to follow that may improve with time.

It was also great to have two terrific vets like Swoozie Kurtz and Ellen Greene (who with the Heroes appearance seems to be having a re-emergence of her career) on board, although based upon the ending, I got the feeling that they would probably not be regulars (perhaps due to the expense) because either one, and most certainly both together, could compensate for any miscues of the remaining cast members.

This show was one of the very, very few new series I had any interest in, and the opulence of the pilot was rewarding enough, but based upon prior reports of cost issues with the networks, I'm concerned that this important aspect may be underutilized. We'll see.

Bottom line: Best new show I've seen so far, but the jury will remain out while a track record is established.

_____________________________________________
Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

This show has peaked my interests. The 'fairy tale' story is a fresh change of pace from all the superhero-type shows/movies. Of the new shows this falls season, this stands out for being one of the freshest (whether copied from DLM or something else) new shows this year. This is one show I plan to watch through this season.

I'm thinking that I liked it, it seems to be like a dead like me meets tru calling in amazing technicolor. I'm wondering if it will just turn out to be a formula of go to the dead guy to get a reward, take last request/wishes, find out whodunnit, do some good, save some folks and gather rewards....

I'll watch but then again I'm easily amused.

The pictute quality was indeed astounding for me in HD, thats the only rave I can muster. Content leaves a bit to be desired. I'll watch one more episode but not sure if I'll stick with it. I had high hopes, but it just has too much of an animated kid show feel to it.

For anyone who missed the pilot, like I did, it is reairing on Friday.

The show was a whimsical delight. For me this was the best new show of the bunch. From the picture quality to the fairly tale story this show set itself apart from anything else on TV right now. I find it hard to believe it is on the same network that put Cavemen on its schedule.

The show was a whimsical delight. For me this was the best new show of the bunch. From the picture quality to the fairly tale story this show set itself apart from anything else on TV right now. I find it hard to believe it is on the same network that put Cavemen on its schedule.

and I still think Caveman will outlast it!

It was good enough that I'll watch it again next week.

But I think this show is vastly superior to 'Dead Like Me' which flamed out spectacularly in its second season after Fuller left to work on 'Wonderfalls'. Anyway, I expected something more, I dunno, whimsical here. The procedural element drags it away from the full-on fable I was hoping for and saps the humor.

I think the show displays some of the scars from Fuller's earlier projects. I think that's a good thing.

Daisies addresses one of the big things that killed Wonderfalls... it presents an overt, clearly magical world. One of things that hurt Wonderfalls a bit is the audience wasn't prepped for objects to just start moving and talking.

I present you with a later quote from this thread:

I had high hopes, but it just has too much of an animated kid show feel to it.

Why did you tune in? They didn't misrepresent that part of the show.

How can you tune into this show and not know what it was? Every promo ABC ran was radioactive yellow.

For those raving about the PQ, did you see it in 1080i? I get ABC in only 720p.



I used my Pioneer's internal tuner to show it in 720p even though it's a 1080p panel. It just looked fabulous.

Does anyone feel like this show could be better as a movie?

How can you tune into this show and not know what it was? Every promo ABC ran was radioactive yellow.
I don't know, that looked a bit more like "International School Bus Yellow" to me.... ;)

Does anyone feel like this show could be better as a movie?That's kind of what I was thinking while watching it. I thought it was entertaining and of course beautiful (First thing I thought of was What Dreams May Come as well), but I just don't know how well it will play as an ongoing show. Hopefully they'll find a way to keep it interesting.


ron

That's probably because ABC network broadcasts in 720p, not 1080i.

There are 1 or 2 stations in the south that show ABC in 1080i but the jury is out if its upconverted or not.

I am waiting for the EU re-broadcasts (SKY maybe) when they will be in native 1080i. "Lost" looks great at 1080i.

Marc Berman guest lectured in my US Media class on this show, we've seen the pilot (amazing mise-en-scene, feels great on the eyes), but many wonder if the premise will get old, and fast. Waking from the dead, re-killing, solving murders - I hope it does well, but it has yet to be seen if it'll grow legs.

and I still think Caveman will outlast it!I hope you're joking.

i loved this show...i grabbed the pilot about a month ago and including last night, was the 3rd time i had watched...very witty dialog that isn't for everyone (read: the overwhelming majority of Americans are idiots), but i hope ABC sticks with it like NBC did with The Office...giving it time to find an audience.

There are 1 or 2 stations in the south that show ABC in 1080i but the jury is out if its upconverted or not.No jury required. The ABC HD Network feed is in 720P. Any station airing it in 1080i is doing a cross-convert.

No jury required. The ABC HD Network feed is in 720P. Any station airing it in 1080i is doing a cross-convert.

I agree with you. But don't tell that to the locals that get it at 1080i cause them'r fighting words.;)

The Sky-HD/Premiere/BBC re-broadcasts (of various shows) are true native 1080i versions and they look great.

and I still think Caveman will outlast it!Pushing Daisies had 12.83 million viewers and a 4.3 rating/13 share for adults 18-49. That did much better than Caveman which had 8.98 million viewers and a 3.3 rating/10 share for adults 18-49.

Marc Berman guest lectured in my US Media class on this show, we've seen the pilot (amazing mise-en-scene, feels great on the eyes), but many wonder if the premise will get old, and fast. Waking from the dead, re-killing, solving murders - I hope it does well, but it has yet to be seen if it'll grow legs.

I liked the pilot, too, but I agree that I worry the premise won't hold up week after week. I'll keep watching for now.

It did look absolutely gorgeous!

I loved this show. Granted I only saw Dead Like Me once or twice and had no idea the same guy(s?) were behind this, so any comparisons never crept into my mind.

Definitely reminds me of a Tim Burton/Danny Elfman collaboration, which in my opinion is always a good time. This reminded me somewhat of Edward Scissorhands in its fairytaleness and quirkyness.

It is very different than anything on the networks (at least that I watch), so I hope it makes it. Definitely my favorite new show.

I did find it extremely hard to believe that him as a boy never once touched his dog again after bringing it back to life before he realized that was how he killed things again. Not to mention that even after knowing that, how do you keep a dog from rubbing up against you for twenty years? And does this imply that when he brings someone back to life but doesn't kill them again that they live forever until he touches them again?

I am glad to see Kristin Chenoweth as a regular on a TV series again. I enjoyed her guest stint on Ugly Betty last season.

I hope you're joking.

sadly no. How often does originality and creativity succeed?

Not to mention the Bryan Fuller effect. The fact it isn't on Fox is a bonus but after that, I'm not getting my hopes up.

I'm seeing Cancellation or Death by Saturday.

Does anyone feel like this show could be better as a movie?

That was my thought with the pilot but I put that largely down to Barry Sonnenfeld. His style isn't TV friendly. Next week when it has to settle into a regular format without his directing is where we'll see how well it works.

Let's see, the heroine on DLM was named George. The heroine on Pushing Daisies is named Chuck.

Do we see a trend here?

Why did you tune in? They didn't misrepresent that part of the show.

How can you tune into this show and not know what it was? Every promo ABC ran was radioactive yellow.

Well actually, I didn't watch ANY of the promos, hence I didn't blame them for misrepresenting it. My fault, I was anticipating the show based solely on the months of rave reviews I kept reading about it. I never had any visual incling of what it would look like, but that was choice.
So my issue with this show is mostly visual (I do LOVE the PQ in HD as well as the Dialogue), but the fairy-tale like narration, and cartoonish look was too distracting. I was, and still am intrigued by the premise of the show and my curiosity was the driving force. I do hope it doesn't get cancelled, but I can't say whether I will go down with the ship if it does.

the fairy-tale like narration, and cartoonish look was too distracting. I was, and still am intrigued by the premise of the show and my curiosity was the driving force. I do hope it doesn't get cancelled, but I can't say whether I will go down with the ship if it does.

The narration is bad. It doesn't help that it is the exact same V-O from the Walgreen's commercials. Narration in general is awful and only second to flashbacks in terms of weak approaches to story telling.

However, I so disagree about the visual quality of the show being a negative. In this age -- with wall to wall recycled cop shows -- different is always good. I know TV has tended to disagree, but it is time for TV to figure out what it is doing wrong and fix it.

All you need to understand why Daisies deserves a long run is to look at the rest of 8pm Weds.:

NBC: Deal or No Deal
Fox: Back to You
CBS: Kid Nation

Seriously... A game show, a mediocre sitcom and a reality show are the best the most well-financed people in the industry can come up with?

Daisies holds out some hope that someone out there still cares about making a story, as opposed to just some crap to fill the slot and sell ads.

I agree with the previous poster about the children's feel and the Limmeny Snickett's narration. I loved DLM, esp the first season, but this one really didn't do it for me. I can live with a ridiculous premise for a show (see DLM); but this whole "can't touch them twice or they die (again)" just seemed way over-contrived to me; I really don't see this show lasting. It did look good, though :).

Let's see, the heroine on DLM was named George. The heroine on Pushing Daisies is named Chuck.

Do we see a trend here?

Ummmm.....they chucked George after her second season?

ABC won the 18-49 demo Wednesday night in the Nielsen Media Research overnight ratings with a 4.1 rating/11 share.

ABC's heavily promoted Pushing Daisies opened with that same 4.1/11, winning its 8 p.m.-9 p.m. time period...

http://broadcastingcable.com/article/CA6487119.html

I did find it extremely hard to believe that him as a boy never once touched his dog again after bringing it back to life before he realized that was how he killed things again. Not to mention that even after knowing that, how do you keep a dog from rubbing up against you for twenty years? And does this imply that when he brings someone back to life but doesn't kill them again that they live forever until he touches them again?


Well, I'm pretty sure he found out the second touch rule later that night since it was bedtime. As far as avoiding touching the dog, perhaps the dog just sensed he should stay away. Animals can be very perceptive. At any rate, considering the plot surrounds a guy who can bring people back to life by touching them and someone else dies if he doesn't touch that person again within one minute, the question of how he's avoided touching the do seems low on the list.

As far as lifespan, it sounds to me like someone can go right on living once they've been brought back - as long as nothing deadly happens, like another 18 wheeler rolling over man's best friend.

The real question is, does that person or animal get any older.....

The narration is bad. It doesn't help that it is the exact same V-O from the Walgreen's commercials.
I have a feeling that's the very thing they were going for. The mode and look of those commercials is very similar - minus the dead people, of course. ;)

I have a feeling that's the very thing they were going for. The mode and look of those commercials is very similar - minus the dead people, of course. ;)

Minus the dead people?! Have you seen Walgreen's stock price lately? It's been bloody murder.

I thought it was okay, but the acting is God awful.

No jury required. The ABC HD Network feed is in 720P. Any station airing it in 1080i is doing a cross-convert.

This show, like most eposidic drama today is shot on film and posted at 1080/24p. The final air master is cross converted to 720P and still retains the progressive footprint. The studio master is still 1080p/24 so future syndication or HD DVD could easily be 1080.

They are using a new generation of color correction equipment that has a lot to do with the unique look.

I should have said any ABC station airing the network feed is getting 720P. Other 60hz countries, such as Canada, can air a 1080/60i conversion from 1080/24P. I don't know if 50hz countries still get a 4.1% speedup to match 25i or 50p.

BTW, did anyone else notice the title of the pilot? I thought it was quite clever: they named it "Pie-lette".

adam brody turned down the lead role on this show

I don't consider myself stupid at all.. in fact I love smart witty dialogue and good plot lines but this all seemed way to overdone for me. It seemed a bit too full of its own wittiness for its own good, but that is just my 2 cents.

I don't consider myself stupid at all.. in fact I love smart witty dialogue and good plot lines but this all seemed way to overdone for me. It seemed a bit too full of its own wittiness for its own good, but that is just my 2 cents.I'm hoping some of the over the top stuff was there since it's a pilot. Helping to explain the premise and some of it may go away down the road.

I keep thinking of Amelie as it had a lot of its style.

I'll be curious if they can keep up the same level of production/ post production. It very much added to the story telling, albeit a bit over the top. It really did have more of a movie feel to it than TV.

was happy to see nothing was changed in the pilot. when I 1st saw it a few months ago I was worried the production cost would be too much if the ratings didnt match it.

just because something gets good reviews doesnt always mean people watching. especially when it's a week after other's already premiered.

good cast and hopefully continuous good stories to go with the great pq will keep people interested.

just because something gets good reviews doesnt always mean people watching. especially when it's a week after other's already premiered.

I think it helped Daisies. After a lot of let downs from the big premiere week, I liked catching a pilot that delivered the exact show I was hoping for.

The only other show that was close at all was Reaper. Hopefully Daisies doesn't fall as far off as Reaper did in week two. Reaper is still pretty good, but the pilot set an insanely high bar. I fear for Daisies if this hits them, too, because they don't have a weak network and a cushy target audience to lean on and say, "So? We still friggin ROCKED THIS PLACE!!!":cool:

If the producers of Daisies are smart they made sure to cram quite a bit of their initial production cost into the pilot budget. According to Fred Fa's HOTP thread, ABC did kick a little more money out to ensure Daisies' ongoing costs are covered.

ABC is known for taking risks, and Bryan Fuller is in full flight right now as a show creator. A lot of good things are there for Daisies that five years ago would have killed it after week one. I don't know if anything quite like it has ever been tried in primetime. I know Wonderfalls was of the same mind, but the visual style is truly radical for primetime, adult programming.

I could see ABC propping it up for a while just to hold on to the title of Network That Takes and Supports Risks. If ABC is serious about seizing this new identity, Daisies could be their final big challenge to all who approach: "Sure, NBC went out on a tiny limb with Heroes, but check Pushing Daisies out!! Ha! No one is as mad as ABC! Hahahaha.":eek:

I think Caveman, Carpoolers and The Bachelor are on the chopping block before this show is considered. Of course that could change with a ratings plunge. The Bachelor lost 65% of the audience from its lead-in.

This show, like most eposidic drama today is shot on film and posted at 1080/24p. The final air master is cross converted to 720P and still retains the progressive footprint. The studio master is still 1080p/24 so future syndication or HD DVD could easily be 1080.

They are using a new generation of color correction equipment that has a lot to do with the unique look.
Just a single correction/question (in case distribution is based on the individual series), ABC is owned by Buena Vista aka Disney who are staunch believers in Blu-Ray. I wouldn't expect an HD DVD release of this (or anything on ABC) but a lot can change in a year obviously.

I thought it was okay, but the acting is God awful.

I listened to an interview on NPR's "Fresh Air" with Sonnenfeld and Fuller prior to the premiere. The actors on this show were chosen precisely because they were stage-trained and top of their profession. Your post makes one wonder whether you'd recognize good acting if it bit you on the arse. :rolleyes:

I listened to an interview on NPR's "Fresh Air" with Sonnenfeld and Fuller prior to the premiere. The actors on this show were chosen precisely because they were stage-trained and top of their profession. Your post makes one wonder whether you'd recognize good acting if it bit you on the arse. :rolleyes:

I wouldn't extend the theater plaudits to Anna Friel, she's an ex-UK soap star and her theater work isn't that extensive. But she's not a terrible actress by any means.

I thought it was okay, but the acting is God awful.
Now, that's an exageration. The style may not be to your tastes, but the acting within that style was fine.

If you want God aweful acting, look no further than the new Flash Gordon series. It will give you a whole new appreciation for "quirky" verses "bad".

I wouldn't extend the theater plaudits to Anna Friel, she's an ex-UK soap star and her theater work isn't that extensive. But she's not a terrible actress by any means.

Yeah, I agree that if there's a weak point in the cast, it's her. There's something missing from her performance, I dunno, a sense of whimsy or something. It's like she's not quite in tune yet with the flow of the show. But it's still early, and if the ratings hold, she'll have plenty of time to develop.

I listened to an interview on NPR's "Fresh Air" with Sonnenfeld and Fuller prior to the premiere. The actors on this show were chosen precisely because they were stage-trained and top of their profession. Your post makes one wonder whether you'd recognize good acting if it bit you on the arse. :rolleyes:

Now, that's an exageration. The style may not be to your tastes, but the acting within that style was fine.

If you want God aweful acting, look no further than the new Flash Gordon series. It will give you a whole new appreciation for "quirky" verses "bad".


It was the way that guy who plays Ned delivered his lines. He was so dry and stiff and his dialog had basically no emotion whatsoever. If that was what they were going for, then I guess it was good acting, but if not this guy has the emotion of a dried stick in the woods.

It was the way that guy who plays Ned delivered his lines. He was so dry and stiff and his dialog had basically no emotion whatsoever. If that was what they were going for, then I guess it was good acting, but if not this guy has the emotion of a dried stick in the woods.

I think he was probably directed to deliver them that way. But, just to play devil's advocate, he played a similarly kinda' wooden character on 'Wonderfalls', so maybe that's just "his style". Actually, now that I've reflected a little more on the two leads, I think I probably owe you a bit of apology, as it's really the supporting cast who's acting chops can't be questioned. :o

It was the way that guy who plays Ned delivered his lines. He was so dry and stiff and his dialog had basically no emotion whatsoever. If that was what they were going for, then I guess it was good acting, but if not this guy has the emotion of a dried stick in the woods.
Let's see:

The guy has a failing pie shop and he has the power to bring people to life (a pretty huge responsibility and an even bigger secret to keep). He also had his mother die twice in the same day in front of him, killed his next door neighbor's father, and can't ever touch his dog (which he saw hit by a truck and also brought back to life). In addition, he can never again touch (much less kiss) the girl he loves from his childhood (who's father he allowed to die for no reason, considering his life was exchanged for his mother's).

You'd probably be a stick in the woods, too, if you had all of that going on.

I think his style was what they intended for the character and he was likely chosen for the role based on his delivery of it. I think they wanted a kind of "detached" air about the character.

As far as the look of the show goes, Ugly Betty (interestingly enough, also on ABC) also incorporates a similar, although not to the same degree, kind of color, look and feel. It's a step or two closer to reality but still somewhat in the same vein.


ron

The narration during the funerals explained "After his mother's death, Ned avoided social attachments, fearing what he'd do if someone else he loved died."

Does the dark haired female lead have a Zooey Deschanel quality or is it me?
I was thinking the exact same thing while watching the pilot - the look, mannerisms, and vocal delivery are all there. After doing a quick internet search, it seems like many others have made this observation as well.

The narration during the funerals explained "After his mother's death, Ned avoided social attachments, fearing what he'd do if someone else he loved died."
I forgot about that part. That does make the case that the wooden feel is intentional.

Love the Story and style of this show. However can they keep it up for a full season? Looks stunning in HD with all that color.

... However can they keep it up for a full season?
"Lost" should have taught us not to ask this question. The early pages of the Lost thread had several people asking how they would sustain it. Well, 3 seasons later with season 4 gearing up....

On the other hand, how many other shows that started up that same season are still with us?

In contrast, what keeps Law and Order going for almost 2 decades?

"Lost" should have taught us not to ask this question. The early pages of the Lost thread had several people asking how they would sustain it. Well, 3 seasons later with season 4 gearing up....

On the other hand, how many other shows that started up that same season are still with us?

In contrast, what keeps Law and Order going for almost 2 decades?

"Ripped from the headlines?" :D

Actually, I think Pushing Dasies could actually make it if people accept it for what it is: something far from the ordinary TV fare.

....In contrast, what keeps Law and Order going for almost 2 decades?

I'd answer that but this is a family friendly forum. ;)

This has got to be one of the BEST shows I have seen in YEARS!!!
Superb story line, comical as anything, Great writing, Great actors...I give it a 10 out of 10, at least on this first episode...

Well, it was certainly interesting; in a Dr. Suess gone wild sort of way....

The narration is bad. It doesn't help that it is the exact same V-O from the Walgreen's commercials. Narration in general is awful and only second to flashbacks in terms of weak approaches to story telling.

So they get the Grammy-award-winning "voice of Harry Potter" Jim Dale to do the narration, and you thought it was a Walgreen's announcer? Man, they could have saved a ton of money.

I was thinking the exact same thing while watching the pilot - the look, mannerisms, and vocal delivery are all there. After doing a quick internet search, it seems like many others have made this observation as well.

Well, that bodes well for her, because Zooey is my fantasy girl (don't judge me -- I like my girls down to earth).

So they get the Grammy-award-winning "voice of Harry Potter" Jim Dale to do the narration, and you thought it was a Walgreen's announcer? Man, they could have saved a ton of money.

Yup.

I don't like heavy narration in general. A lot of stories (TV, film, stage) lean too heavily on narration to skirt explaining big issues.

They could have gotten the guy who narrated:
Cat in the Hat
Charlie & the Chocolate Factory
or
Babe...

Regardless I think it was a refreshing means of bringing the viewers (quickly) up to date on the different scenes.

The narration is clearly patterned after a similar device in 'Amelie', and it works brilliantly.

I loved everything about the pilot episode. I don't expect it to last, but it'll be a fun ride while it's on.

I don't like heavy narration in general. A lot of stories (TV, film, stage) lean too heavily on narration to skirt explaining big issues.
How is that "skirting explaining big issues"? The whole point of narration is to explain stuff.

At any rate, if narration bothers you, this probably isn't going to be the show for you. Personally, for me, a narrator is almost essential for a "fairy tale" story. It's like having your mother or father reading to you.

How is that "skirting explaining big issues"? The whole point of narration is to explain stuff.

At any rate, if narration bothers you, this probably isn't going to be the show for you. Personally, for me, a narrator is almost essential for a "fairy tale" story. It's like having your mother or father reading to you.

I agree 100% The narration is crucial to the vibe of this kind of show, as is picking just the right guy to do it. I think they got that part right, at least.

I agree 100% The narration is crucial to the vibe of this kind of show, as is picking just the right guy to do it. I think they got that part right, at least.

+1

The narration is what sets up the whole "Once Upon A Time" premise....

I agree 100% The narration is crucial to the vibe of this kind of show, as is picking just the right guy to do it. I think they got that part right, at least.
Guess Peter Falk just wasn't available. :(

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Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

Guess Peter Falk just wasn't available. :(

"Ned found he could bring people back to life with a single touch...............but, just one more thing....it's kind of been bothering me, and my boss would really like it cleared up - it seems that a second touch would make them dead again - permanantly. Oh, and I have a cousin who's really into statistics. Smart guy. He claims that if the person Ned brings back stays living for over a minute - and this concerns me, because of all the paperwork - someone else has to die."

"Ned found he could bring people back to life with a single touch...............but, just one more thing....it's kind of been bothering me, and my boss would really like it cleared up - it seems that a second touch would make them dead again - permanantly. Oh, and I have a cousin who's really into statistics. Smart guy. He claims that if the person Ned brings back stays living for over a minute - and this concerns me, because of all the paperwork - someone else has to die."
Didn't think the reference was so obscure as to shoot past your field of vision.

We're not talking Columbo here, but rather Falk's picture perfect performance (how can anyone not love alliteration? ;)) as the Narrator/Grandpa for The Princess Bride.

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Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

Didn't think the reference was so obscure as to shoot past your field of vision.

We're not talking Columbo here, but rather Falk's picture perfect performance (how can anyone not love alliteration? ;)) as the Narrator/Grandpa for The Princess Bride.
You know, the funny thing is, I was thinking of that very movie when I posted this earlier:

Personally, for me, a narrator is almost essential for a "fairy tale" story. It's like having your mother or father reading to you.

I'm kind of ashamed I missed the reference on the same page. Of course, to me, Peter Falk will always be Columbo...

...I mean, can you picture him as that character narrating? ;) :)

You know, the funny thing is, I was thinking of that very movie when I posted this earlier:

...I mean, can you picture him as that character narrating? ;) :)
Actually, in a perfect world, my first choice (and not just for sentimental reasons) would be resurrecting Edward Everett Horton, not for his work in things like Lost Horizon, but rather for his whimsical narrative performances For Fractured Fairy Tales (boy, this alliteration thing can get addictive :)) on Rocky and Bullwinkle.

As B & N could tell you, It's not easy to upstage moose and squirrel! :D

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Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

i was hoping to really like this one but couldn't quite get into it.

i found the narration to be irritating.

i found myself trying to poke holes in it a few too many times -- why doesn't he wear gloves, there's no way that he never touched his dog in all those years, why does he bring strawberries back to life when it will kill somebody, etc etc. i realize you need to suspend belief to enjoy it (like i do for 24) but i couldn't.

the actual plot of finding the murderer was realy lame. if the show is going to be about solving murders they need to step that up and make it an interesting story each week.

why does he bring strawberries back to life when it will kill somebody,

Why would it kill someone :confused:

i thought if he brought something back to life and let it live longer than a minute then something/somebody else had to die.

i probably missed something on that one so feel free to ignore.

i was hoping that he would bring somebody back and as a result the narrator would die.

i thought if he brought something back to life and let it live longer than a minute then something/somebody else had to die.


off camera, an apple died.

Or it could explain why is shop is always empty.

the actual plot of finding the murderer was realy lame. if the show is going to be about solving murders they need to step that up and make it an interesting story each week.

Right, because clearly what this show needs is to be turned into another CSI spin-off. :rolleyes:

Right, because clearly what this show needs is to be turned into another CSI spin-off. :rolleyes:


oh god no.

maybe simon and simon?

or murder she wrote?

no, i'm not saying they should add a whole new level of lame. just something that is more textured than chasing some random golden monkeys.

maybe this will be another popular show that just doesn't hit me a la desperate housewives (speaking of annoying narration) or ugly betty (speaking of shows that look great in HD).

i'm not saying narration doesn't have its place -- wonder years did it very well. i just don't think it works here.

How is that "skirting explaining big issues"? The whole point of narration is to explain stuff.

The whole point of narration is to explain stuff really fast. There is a tendency to have the narrator say, "And then they went somewhere..." And that's the end of the exploration of an issue.

At any rate, if narration bothers you, this probably isn't going to be the show for you. Personally, for me, a narrator is almost essential for a "fairy tale" story. It's like having your mother or father reading to you.

I can have a problem with a particular part of a show and still watch it.

or murder she wrote?

We're only allowed to do another Murder, She Wrote if someone finally throws Angela Lansbury in jail for killing all those people.

We're only allowed to do another Murder, She Wrote if someone finally throws Angela Lansbury in jail for killing all those people.

to be fair, tom bosley was responsible for a couple of those murders

addendum: very appealing artsy style to say the least. Those daisy hills with the deep blue sky really shined in HDTV.
Felt like a combination of the style of Tim Burton's Big Fish and the narration from Amelie.

off camera, an apple died.

Or it could explain why is shop is always empty.
LOL!

I think that aspect has to do with the fact that his only business is selling pies - in a shop named "The Pie Hole". As all I can say is, I'm glad he doesn't specialize in corn...

If he specialized in corn
he may have looked like this:http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/7753/cornholiopx7.th.jpg (http://img233.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cornholiopx7.jpg)

Couple of things... and semi-spoilered in case anyone hasn't watched yet..





Why did he find out first about his mom and not his dog? Seems to me much more likely he would have touched his dog a 2nd time before touching his mom for the first time even! Also... how likely is it to train a dog not to come up to its owner and touch him? Granted the whole show is fantasy and magic or something... but that seemed unbelievable even within the show for some reason.

Also... not dwelled upon... but since that is the same dog from when he was 10... it makes it look like things that he brings back do not age. I'm surprised this didn't get more than a passing mention in the show.

Just a single correction/question (in case distribution is based on the individual series), ABC is owned by Buena Vista aka Disney who are staunch believers in Blu-Ray. I wouldn't expect an HD DVD release of this (or anything on ABC) but a lot can change in a year obviously.

True, I typically use the term "HD DVD" as a generic term for both formats.

since that is the same dog from when he was 10... it makes it look like things that he brings back do not age.Seems a rip-off that he can make others immortal (as long as he doesn't touch them again) while he cannot benefit from that power. I assume he can't touch himself after he dies.

Seems a rip-off that he can make others immortal (as long as he doesn't touch them again) while he cannot benefit from that power. I assume he can't touch himself after he dies.
He'd probably wake up blind if he did...

True, I typically use the term "HD DVD" as a generic term for both formats.

"HD DVD" is a specific brand name, not a generic term.

"HD DVD" is a specific brand name, not a generic term.

HD DVD is a format. Toshiba is a brand name.

HD DVD is a format. Toshiba is a brand name.HD DVD is a format, true. However it is also a trademarked name belonging to the DVD Forum, IIRC. The BDA has no ownership of the name, thus the BDA always makes the distinction in ads, etc; usually referring to it as Blu-ray Disk.

The term I see (and use) frequently to refer to either hi-def format is HDM (hi-def movies). I don't think that one's trademarked (yet, anyway):p.

I've referred to them as HD optical discs, but I'm sure someone will question that as one can put HD files on traditional DVDs. How about "A newer optical disc format that uses blue light which is endlessly debated about on AVS"?

I've referred to them as HD optical discs, but I'm sure someone will question that as one can put HD files on traditional DVDs. How about "A newer optical disc format that uses blue light which is endlessly debated about on AVS"?

ANODFTUBLWIEDAOAVS?

Can we abreviate that as A*? ;)

The term I see (and use) frequently to refer to either hi-def format is HDM (hi-def movies). I don't think that one's trademarked (yet, anyway):p.

I prefer DOA.:D

To get back on topic, Pushing Daisies is...a show.

The main character kept reminding me of Pee Wee Herman... and the tone and look of the show, including narrator, kept making me think I was watching a Dr Seuss adaptation.

Don't know if that is good or bad... but those kept creeping into my head as I watched.

SD start tonight in pittsburgh on wtae

lame

I am really liking this sweet little show. Swoozie singing, "Dandy-lions," little mysteries, knitting private dicks - what's not to love?


Mitch

I found the very frequent references and jokes about the model's bulimia a bit odd. Quirky maybe. It's like they started out with a gentle nudge / joke about it, then a firm push, then a hard shove. Also that I don't think they ever bothered to come straight out and say it. I wonder if they'll get praised or condemned for it by the ED groups. . .

Not a bad show last night. Love the red-head model's facial expressions.

This show does mixing in some very wicked and biting stuff in a sweet wrapping. Disguising the bulimia references in the middle of rhymes disguises it in plain site. I really hope this show lasts or at least finds a home on Showtime or something.

I am really liking this sweet little show. Swoozie singing, "Dandy-lions," little mysteries, knitting private dicks - what's not to love?


Mitch
That was Kristin Chenoweth singing, not Swoozie Kurtz. Kristin is a well established singer who has appeared on Broadway many times. I am glad they got her a chance to sing in the show, and I hope she gets more.

I am really liking this sweet little show. Swoozie singing, "Dandy-lions," little mysteries, knitting private dicks - what's not to love?


Mitch

It really is refreshing and well done.

I love this show! It's original, funny and creative... There are the four reasons I'm sure it won't last.

That was Kristin Chenoweth singing, not Swoozie Kurtz. Kristin is a well established singer who has appeared on Broadway many times. I am glad they got her a chance to sing in the show, and I hope she gets more.

Oops. The main point is that they put a little singing into the show and it wasn't out of place. Very nice touch, imo.


Mitch

Oops. The main point is that they put a little singing into the show and it wasn't out of place. Very nice touch, imo.


MitchThis is true. I generally am not a fan of musicals or singing in general in movies and TV shows. But occasionally it's done in a way that feels OK and doesn't bother me. Watching Moulin Rouge was that way. That song last night also worked for me and was done quite well with the starts and stops incorporated. I actually thought last night's ep was better than the pilot myself. Lots of little touches here and there make it rich. Stuff like when the bad guy goes to hook up the daisy car to the test crash cable and hits his fingers with the hook. It was only about a half a second shot but it made me laugh.


ron

I also laughed out loud when

the bad guy - president of a eco-friendly car company - chases them in a Hummer.


My biggest problem with the show right now is that it's opposite another show my wife and daughter insist I record since my daughter has viola lessons at the same time. (Although, they like PD as well, but are more attached to the other show.) So, I can only watch PD in real-time - assuming I'm not the one driving her to viola. In fact this show has driven me to start looking into getting an additional DVR so I can record both shows!



Mitch

I love this show! It's original, funny and creative... There are the four reasons I'm sure it won't last.

My wife and I had this exact conversation after last night's episode. I hope we're wrong.

The offbeat "dramedy" seems to be a hard sell for network TV audiences though. Remember Ed on NBC?. Pushing Daisies reminds me of that show... at least as far as the quirky characters and situations and general "sweetness"... though Ed obviously lacked the visual punch of PD.

Ed eventually watered down its characters and dialogue to try to find a bigger audience. I hope that doesn't happen here.

That was Kristin Chenoweth singing, not Swoozie Kurtz. Kristin is a well established singer who has appeared on Broadway many times. I am glad they got her a chance to sing in the show, and I hope she gets more.

She is a Tony Award winner in Broadway musicals, which makes her a bit more than just a well established singer. Her bit on the show last night was like taking a major league baseball player and putting him in a softball game. It didn't even represent how great a singer she is.

I also laughed out loud when the bad guy - president of a eco-friendly car company - chases them in a Hummer.

MitchAnd then gets caught by the police when he runs out of gas of course :D. Definitely some commentary going on in this show...


ron

Veronica Mars fans should have recognized the bad guy CEO/crash-dummy murderer as Patrick Fabian, who played Professor Hank Landry in the show's final season.

I'm really enjoying Pushing Daisies. I was annoyed by the narration during the pilot episode, but it seems to be growing on me.

Chi McBride is great with his deadpan humor, and Anna Friel is proving to have some nice comedic chops.

And is it just me, or does lead actor Lee Pace look a lot like John Cusack?

Loved the singing bit with Kristin Chenowith. Normally not a fan of shows with musical scenes, but it fits perfectly into the charm and wit of this show.

I really like this show. It's different, quirky, etc. Just hope viewers find it and give it a chance.

My wife watches far less TV than I do, and even SHE likes it!

I'm just concerned that it is so original/creative that the average viewer will find it too "out there". I'm going to enjoy it while it lasts.

And is it just me, or does lead actor Lee Pace look a lot like John Cusack?

Yes. Its just you. :p

I don't know if this has been mentioned, but with all the comments referring to children's shows, books, etc. made in this thread, did anyone else with kids catch the line that Chuck tossed out when she first saw the Crash Dummy with the wires hanging from his face? She said "One of these guys is not like the others". On Sesame Street, there was an extremely popular song (which I had to hear way too many times) "One of these things is not like the others". Looks like we'll be getting quite a few homages to childhood during the course of the series.

I like this show and find it a lot of fun, but am having some difficulty understanding how they'll get at least a season or more out of the concept.

The cast (other than the lead) are really top notch, and the producers should follow their instincts, and keep putting Anne Friel in outfits with low-cut scoop necklines. ;)

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Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

The offbeat "dramedy" seems to be a hard sell for network TV audiences though. Remember Ed on NBC?. Pushing Daisies reminds me of that show... at least as far as the quirky characters and situations and general "sweetness"... though Ed obviously lacked the visual punch of PD.

The environment after the successes of shows like Lost, Heroes and Battlestar Galactica gives Daisies a much better chance than it would have had a few years ago.

Execs are more willing to let a show that pushes boundaries fly for a while. And so far Daisies is posting respectable numbers.

I think this might be the one that sticks.

I like this show and find it a lot of fun, but am having some difficulty understanding how they'll get at least a season or more out of the concept.



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Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind
I really like it too, it's fresh and different, but my initial thoughts were the same, how will they keep it going? It's almost as if it may have better as a movie.

I really like it too, it's fresh and different, but my initial thoughts were the same, how will they keep it going? It's almost as if it may have better as a movie.
I tend to agree. Not sure it would make much of a ripple in a film venue due to its genteel quirkiness. Kind of like a "Waking Ned Devine" without actually being an Indie. And what would be the marketing hook? "I speak to dead people"?? Everyone will show up expecting the Osment kid. ;)

I think the basic concept has a better shot at becoming an acquired taste as a TV series. But how they are going to keep it from eventually becoming redundant and cloying, is beyond me. :confused:

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Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

Veronica Mars fans should have recognized the bad guy CEO/crash-dummy murderer as Patrick Fabian, who played Professor Hank Landry in the show's final season.

I knew I had seen him before but didn't tie him to Veronica Mars ( a show to be sorely missed).

I like Pushing Up Daisies, a sure Kiss of Death, such as Arrested Development and Veronica Mars. Hope I'm wrong.

I remember Patrick Fabian more for his role as Professor Laskey on "Saved by the Bell: College Years".

The only problem my wife and I can see about this show is the fact that the show IS very offbeat, fairy-tale-ish, lots of post-processing...

It would definitely work as a stand-alone show (e.g., a movie a la Tim Burtons), but as a series, it may become too repetitive and formulaic, or may not be able to keep up the quirky level...

So far so good, but we'll have to see...

Hong.

I found this weeks ep entertaining. Some parts of this show are annoying to me, but it's interesting enough in others to get away with those. I'm beginning to hope it sticks around.

I thought the second episode was inspired. Their art department did a wonderful job with the Dandy Lion car, and the procedural element was handled with just the right tounge-in-cheekiness that this show needs. And they could insert a musical number from Kristin Chenoweth every week, far as I'm concerned. Now, the question is, can they keep it up every week? Fuller made it happen with 'Wonderfalls', all the way up to the point where he knew they were canceled and he had to wrap things up hurriedly that were supposed to take another 9 episodes to conclude. People seem to love 'Dead Like Me' beyond the point where it was deserved, but for my money, 'Wonderfalls' was the more inspired effort. It got more clever, more inspired, every week during its brief run. So, I have high hopes for this show.

Now, the question is, can they keep it up every week?

This is a pre-installed narrative that critics have made for this show. Since you really can't harsh the show for anything, critics have decided to invent a narrative where we discuss whether they can ever possibly keep up the high production value of the show.

Really? Because Lost just has fallen over the cliff in production value, right? BSG, done for, what with its small budget, right?

Can we drop this meme at least until the show has some cracks appear?

Daisies is the only new show so far this season that actually topped its pilot with an even better second episode. Visually, I thought it was more consistent. The plot was miles better. The jokes were funnier. There was a great musical routine in the middle that built out a secondary character.

Daisies is amazing for a simple reason: the show knows what it is and what it wants to say about humanity. That's pretty damned impressive.

"I thought I killed you!"

"I can hold my breath for a long time."

Stupidly, I erroneously set my DVR to record the 2nd episode on the SD channel. Of all the shows for that to happen to! I can't believe I did that.

On the plus side, this was the very first time my wife has ever taken active notice of the difference between SD and HD. She kept saying, "I can't believe how bad this looks". This was the show that finally pushed her over the edge into 'getting' what HD is all about. It's especially hilarious since last week I made a comment that this was a show that absolutely demanded to be watched in High Definition, and she rolled her eyes at me at the time.

On the plus side, this was the very first time my wife has ever taken active notice of the difference between SD and HD. She kept saying, "I can't believe how bad this looks". This was the show that finally pushed her over the edge into 'getting' what HD is all about. It's especially hilarious since last week I made a comment that this was a show that absolutely demanded to be watched in High Definition, and she rolled her eyes at me at the time.

Wait.... this is your wife, Mr. movie reviewer guy....? She's just now noticing this?? :D

I really wanted to like this show b/c of the great reviews, but I just couldn't. There's something about it that grates on me...the "quirkyness", as everyone calls it, is one of the things that makes me want to throw something at the TV when I watch it (oddness for the sake of being odd, rather than to advance the story). Also, I can't stand the narrator, the pretentious British accent doesn't do it for me. I'm not opposed to "dramedys" as a whole, I actually kind of like "Chuck" on NBC, but I'm not a huge fan of the ABC ones, e.g. Ugly Betty, Gray's Anatomy, Desperate Housewives, or this show.

That being said, as this is an HD forum, the PQ is AMAZING, and the overall look of the show is a great advertisement for HD in general.

-R

I really wanted to like this show b/c of the great reviews, but I just couldn't. There's something about it that grates on me...the "quirkyness"...... makes me want to throw something at the TV when I watch it (oddness for the sake of being odd, rather than to advance the story). -R
This happens to be a pet peeve of my own with respect to certain 'art house' flicks. Too often I find eccentricity being utilized to compensate for the shortcomings of the storywriting. The most recent example that comes to mind was all the hoopla surrounding 'Little Miss Sunshine'. Some people were treating that film like it was the second coming. Now Alan Arkin can do no wrong with me, but his character along with all the other dysfunctional ones seemed much more like caricatures, than characters.

BUT, this is not the way I view Pushing Daisies. The entire essence of this show, from the PQ to the set design, to the fairy tale motif, to the main and supporting roles, are presented with such a broad, good-natured nod and a wink, that it feels almost natural for that universe.

Also, I can't stand the narrator, the pretentious British accent doesn't do it for me.
Now wait a second here. Jim Dale, the narrator, IS British. So unless you know him personally, I don't see how you would have any basis to characterize his accent as "pretentious". :rolleyes:

That being said, as this is an HD forum, the PQ is AMAZING, and the overall look of the show is a great advertisement for HD in general.....,
Agreed. Shows like this could have a genuine impact to drive non-AVS members to lust for Hi Def. It sometimes can be tough to convince the wife that you want to toss a few grand away, solely because of professional sports. :)

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Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

One of the things I continually find amusing about comments about the excellent PQ (which I agree with and have commented on) is the fact that it is "only" 720p, just like the other ABC eye-fest, Lost.

I sometimes read comments about how 720p is an "inferior" system---up to comments that it isn't "true" HD. I think Pushing Daisies could be the poster child to prove that ain't necessarily so. :)

Wait.... this is your wife, Mr. movie reviewer guy....? She's just now noticing this?? :D

Yes, it is ironic, I know. Generally speaking, my wife can't tell the difference between High Definition and an EP-speed VHS recording. All she notices is the size of the picture. If it's big, she likes it.

I can't tell you the number of times we've watched some crap PQ SD show (take your pick of anything on the FX network) and the following exchange has taken place:

Wife: "Geez, that's an actor who shouldn't be seen in High Definition!"
Me: "Do you really think this is High Definition?"
Wife: "You know what I mean."

Shows like this could have a genuine impact to drive non-AVS members to lust for Hi Def. It sometimes can be tough to convince the wife that you want to toss a few grand away, solely because of professional sports. :)

This is an issue I want explained to me. In our culture it is constantly claimed that women have a better eye for colors, details, etc.

So, how is that HD has been pidgeon-holed as a really expensive guy toy?

Now wait a second here. Jim Dale, the narrator, IS British. Is it the same Jim Dale that was in the Carry-On movies back in the sixties and seventies? Kinda sounds like him. If so, I would think he's probably in his sixties now.

This is an issue I want explained to me. In our culture it is constantly claimed that women have a better eye for colors, details, etc.

I've haven't looked into the scientific reasons myself recently, but I do remember learning in a psych course during college that men tend to have a greater response to visual cues, and women tend to have a greater response to aural cues. If you've ever had phone sex with a girlfriend, spouse, etc., you're probably able to gauge this yourself.

It would be unfair for me to comment further, as I've beem told I have an 8" voice, and YMMV. :D

So, how is that HD has been pidgeon-holed as a really expensive guy toy?
Its not the HD that has gotten it pigeon-holed, but rather that whether HD or SD, guys love a big screen for sports, movies and practically anything else. I think our S.O.'s don't get the point that we find it to be a more engaging viewing experience, and rather think its nothing more than a D**K contest.

Is it the same Jim Dale that was in the Carry-On movies back in the sixties and seventies? Kinda sounds like him. If so, I would think he's probably in his sixties now.
Yes, and almost Yes. According to IMDB, he's 72 years old at this point. He also does the Audiobooks for the Harry Potter series. Man, its been a long time since anyone's mentioned the Carry-On series. Definitely an acquired taste.

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Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

Is it the same Jim Dale that was in the Carry-On movies back in the sixties and seventies? Kinda sounds like him. If so, I would think he's probably in his sixties now.

Yes, and almost Yes. According to IMDB, he's 72 years old at this point. He also does the Audiobooks for the Harry Potter series. Man, its been a long time since anyone's mentioned the Carry-On series. Definitely an acquired taste.


He was in Charlotte a few months ago giving a reading of the final Harry Potter book (a reading of him doing a reading - kind of like going to a concert to hear a singer sing like his CD). He said that was the last time he was ever going to do such a thing - I think he's relieved to be finally done with them.

Is it the same Jim Dale that was in the Carry-On movies back in the sixties and seventies? Kinda sounds like him. If so, I would think he's probably in his sixties now.

The thing I enjoy about his performace, particularly given the tone of the program is the Edward Everett Horton "Fractured Fairy Tales" quality about it. Good stuff.

The thing I enjoy about his performace, particularly given the tone of the program is the Edward Everett Horton "Fractured Fairy Tales" quality about it. Good stuff.

Actually, I made reference to both EEH and FFT earlier on in this thread. Glad to see I'm not the only one old enough to remember him. ;)

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Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

Jim Dale.... Man, its been a long time since anyone's mentioned the Carry-On series. Definitely an acquired taste.


Not if you're British and were around in the 60's and 70's :D then those films were hilarious :) :) :) and they still are !

Interesting things from last night's show...

1. When describing the mortician the narrator said he was "44 years, 17 months...."....I back up to make sure I heard it right.

2. When in the basement he accidentally touched 2 bodies, I thought he had touched them through the sheets, but it appeared that one foot and one hand was exposed.....but then he touched their bare skin thru his pants.

I like this show...its beautiful and very well made but honestly can't see it going anywhere...the way I see it, its going to end up one of two ways:

A) The girl finds another guy and breaks the Piemaker's Heart
B) The Piemaker will accidentally touch her (season finale or something) and re-kills the girl

How else can this work? What else can they do with this gag?

I think they can continue with the solving mysteries and just add to the overall story arc in pieces. One of the side effects of Chuck's presence is that she asks deeper questions other than "who killed you" and so sometimes forces the private investigator to actually do some investigating.
So, I think it can have a reasonably long run. If nothing else, it has great eye-candy both in terms of PQ and cast.


Mitch

Last night's episode was the first time seeing the show. You can definitely see the connection to DLM. It's more like DLM meets Pee Wee's Playhouse. The lead actor even kinda looks like Pee Wee Herman with longer hair.

I haven't made up my mind if I like the show yet. It's ok for a show to be quirky, but when every character is trying too hard to be quirky then it gets annoying. I'll give another shot next week.

I liked last night's show. This is one of the best if not the best show of the new fall lineup.

Something to wonder about...

His touch brings back people, animals, bugs, plants, and even the detached fruit from plants.... so how come the yeast in the dough doesn't come back and make the dough rise some more?

And what about bacteria and fungus andother nasties in the kitchen?

For that matter... why not the wooden door or table?

Just random things to think about.

Oh... and if he lets someone live more than a minute, then someone else in close proximity dies... but then he can bring that person back too and undo the accidental death... seems like he could "fix" the problem, especially with strangers whom he would be unlikely to accidentally touch and kill again in the future anyway.

Well, most of the "fantasy" premises (including time travel) do have those pesky "coherency" issues... :p

In the end, you will have to leave that as a tool for telling stories at some point and just enjoy. :)

Hong.

Interesting things from last night's show...
2. When in the basement he accidentally touched 2 bodies, I thought he had touched them through the sheets, but it appeared that one foot and one hand was exposed.....but then he touched their bare skin thru his pants.

you can actually see his hand brushes off the exposed hand/foot of the dead bodies.

One questions from last nights show (and maybe I just missed it). Apparently there was a funeral for Chuck. Did no one miss Chuck's body since
she is now alive?

I think Chuck was bought back to life after the funeral inside and before the burial.

I think Chuck was bought back to life after the funeral inside and before the burial.

I seem to recall the casket missing from the viewing room and Chuck in a hearse on her way to the cemetery. The chase, digging, and revival followed.

The chase, digging, and revival followed.And the burning truck. The revival was done in the funeral home before the casket was moved to the burial site where the rescue occurred.

I think Chuck was bought back to life after the funeral inside and before the burial.

Thanks. I remember now.

Something to wonder about...

His touch brings back people, animals, bugs, plants, and even the detached fruit from plants.... so how come the yeast in the dough doesn't come back and make the dough rise some more?


Um, dude? Time for you to read up on the MacGuffin.

Don't waste too much time nitpicking premises. Find the show's message and its heart and be happy if hangs out in your wavelength.

Something to wonder about...

His touch brings back people, animals, bugs, plants, and even the detached fruit from plants.... so how come the yeast in the dough doesn't come back and make the dough rise some more?

And what about bacteria and fungus andother nasties in the kitchen?

For that matter... why not the wooden door or table?

Just random things to think about.

Oh... and if he lets someone live more than a minute, then someone else in close proximity dies... but then he can bring that person back too and undo the accidental death... seems like he could "fix" the problem, especially with strangers whom he would be unlikely to accidentally touch and kill again in the future anyway.

I thought they explained in the first episode that he couldn't bring back what his power had killed. Plus of course, if he could fix that mistake it would start a never ending chain of deaths and revivals since he can only touch a person once.

Obviously for something to be revived it has to be relatively in one piece so that rules out planks of wood.

What you should be asking is if he brings back someone who has been prepped for a funeral what happens to their blood? Most of the body is filled with embalming fluid, as I always remember from the old Tales From The Crypt movie. A woman crying over the coffin of her dead husband, wishes he was alive forever. He comes back to life screaming in agony from the toxic fluids and she has to kill him. Unfortunately her wish keeps him immortal and she has to chop him into pieces. :D

Um, dude? Time for you to read up on the MacGuffin.

Don't waste too much time nitpicking premises. Find the show's message and its heart and be happy if hangs out in your wavelength.

I didn't say *I* was losing sleep over it.. just throwing some dust in the wind is all. :)

Ok, I missed the "Pie-Lette" episode. Someone fill me in please.

From what I've been able to gather, Ned revived his Mom after she died in the kitchen. Since he didn't touch her before a minute was up, Chuck's dad died. But then my wife said that the Mom died later after Ned touched her. And this is why Ned and Chuck cannot touch, because she will die again.

So the rule is that "nature" will take another victim if the first victim is not returned to a dead state within a minute. But aren't there any effects if Ned re-deadens the first person after a minute? Like someone who was supposed to die, doesn't?

Ok, I missed the "Pie-Lette" episode. Someone fill me in please.

Just watch the episode at ABC.com. One of the few free online video services that actually looks good.

Cool. Thanks, VisionOn.

I think they are exploring the "rules" in bits and pieces as the series progresses.

OKAY. I'm happy to say that whatever few concerns I may have initially expressed about this show have been waylaid for the time being, and it has moved onto my permanent queue. This was the best episode so far and helped to define the genre which this series will be pursuing as a genuine comedy, in which the life/death touch will not be the focus, but rather the framework.

What else was good about it:

1) The sensibility of this ep semed to be the most aligned with the best of the DLM eps, and exceeding them at points as well;

2) Chi McBride who seemed disinterested in the pilot episode, is now running at full tilt boogie, and is a joy to watch, as of course are Swoozie Kurtz and Ellen Greene. I hope the latter are regulars and not merely recurrent roles. I Loved the gag where Aunt Lily's eyes well up with tears, and as she pulls the 'patch' off, a stream of water spurts out.

3) Kristen Chenowith's facial expressions are priceless, and she comes close to stealing virtually every scene she's in. Hope they let her solo on 'Defying Gravity' at some point, as she was overshadowed by the main character in 'Wicked'.

I also LMAO at how she broke the fourth wall when she ran down the steps of the Aunts' house holding her chest so her breasts wouldn't bounce, when there was no one within the confines of the show watching her, just the audience on the other side of the tube.

4) Having a southern asian 'villian' adopt a speaking style cadence which Blanche DuBois would find decidely 'over the top', was a great touch. Unfortunately, this came close to being undermined by the gratuitous 'Jedi Master' line by the lead.

5) it was the first time that I thought Lee Pace might actually be able to carry his load in this ensemble of heavyweights.

6) And finally, the show demonstrated its ability to accomplish 'sweet', without throwing the diabetics in the audience into insulin shock. ;)

Based on what we've seen so far, it seems unlikely that the series will stray much outside the confines of their locale, but I don't think that will be as necessary (as I once did) to keep the show fresh.

_______________________________________________
Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

Deleted. Wrong thread.

What you should be asking is if he brings back someone who has been prepped for a funeral what happens to their blood? Most of the body is filled with embalming fluid,...

I too pondered about the embalming fluid, etc, but soon gave up since in a fantasy anything goes. :rolleyes:

"Pushing Daisies" has been renewed for the entire season (22 episodes) unless there's a writer's strike in November: http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hr/content_display/news/e3id739a8fbebc200018628e482d29cb24e

This is great news!

I'm very pleased with ABC. Daisies and Carpoolers get more episodes.

"Pushing Daisies" has been renewed for the entire season (22 episodes) unless there's a writer's strike in November: http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hr/content_display/news/e3id739a8fbebc200018628e482d29cb24e

Great news, it's my favorite broadcast network series in a long time.

Finally watched the first 3 episodes on the DVR last night and this is a great show, very excited to here it got picked up for a full 22 episode run

Woo Hoo!! How often do you get to see Fractured Fairy Tale shows in Technicolor HD with Dr Seuss style narration on network TV? Excellent news!


ron

"Pushing Daisies" has been renewed for the entire season (22 episodes) unless there's a writer's strike in November: http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hr/content_display/news/e3id739a8fbebc200018628e482d29cb24e

Great news!

Very, very pleased to hear this! Only new show of the Season that has really caught my interest.

____________________________________________________________
Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

What a great show. This was probably my favorite episode so far.
They explained (in their own quirky way) how it is that the dog and pie maker have been able to go all these years without a mishap.
The mystery to be solved had some nice twists and turns.
They explored Olive's and the aunts' characters a bit more - made them more human/3 dimensional.
And, the whole "pidge" bit kept me laughing. (Especially since this is what my son calls his sister (as adapted from Lady and the Tramp)).
What a great show.


Mitch

And Kristin Chenoweth's rack didn't hurt the episode at all...

They explored Olive's and the aunts' characters a bit more - made them more human/3 dimensional.

That's what threw me off. We seemed to be building up to a darker view of humanity, and instead Olive let's the whole thing go.

Really?

So far one of the more interesting aspects of this show has been the interlacing of really orange gooey goodness with a more sinister tone. I would have rather seen Olive take the low road, and then somehow her attempt fails (I mean, there is an armed criminal in the windmill, right?).

Seemed like a waste of a story arc for it to just be, "And Olive felt sorry for the aunts and does the right thing."

" you can't even suck her toes. Some women like that"

Second week now Chi has had this toe issue. I am also they are allowing the Corner to have a bit more interaction.

What a great show. This was probably my favorite episode so far.
They explained (in their own quirky way) how it is that the dog and pie maker have been able to go all these years without a mishap.


The dog's really smart and knew the consequences of touching his owner. A simple and silly bit of plotting that fit right in with the overall tone of the show.

On any other show it would have been laughable, but it actually worked on PD. In it's way it was so simple that it was borderline genius.

That's what threw me off. We seemed to be building up to a darker view of humanity, and instead Olive let's the whole thing go.

Really?

So far one of the more interesting aspects of this show has been the interlacing of really orange gooey goodness with a more sinister tone. I would have rather seen Olive take the low road, and then somehow her attempt fails (I mean, there is an armed criminal in the windmill, right?).

Seemed like a waste of a story arc for it to just be, "And Olive felt sorry for the aunts and does the right thing."

I see your point, but I think the fact that she developed an affinity for the aunts that overrode her desire to get Chuck in trouble is more human than just being a spiteful, revengeful person. Besides, there's enough darkness in the PD world to keep it interesting. After all, the whole waking the dead/rekilling them for money is rather dark. Add in some of the characters such as the doctor(?)/coroner(?) looking for a piece of the action and the weekly introduction of some murderer who needs to be found and there's enough evil to go around. Personally, I prefer the idea that our little troupe of protagonists don't go around stabbing each other in the back - or if they do, its with very small knives.



Mitch

Love to see Ellen Greene sing like Kristen. just a small number. She was fantastic in Little Shop of Horrors.

Love to see Ellen Greene sing like Kristen. just a small number. She was fantastic in Little Shop of Horrors.

Love that movie. Ellen was a surprise (hadn't heard of her before)...but when she belted out "Suddenly, Seymore", yikes!

Given Pushing Daisies format, a song once in a while wouldn't be out of place...sort of like a Willy Wonka moment.

Glad to hear this show got picked up for the season!

One gripe from last night, though it's nothing to do with the show itself - for some reason, my local ABC affiliate decided to show half of it with freaking sidebars. It's an HD show! They eventually figured it out and took them off after coming out of a commercial halfway through. Anybody else get this, or was it just KATU?

One thing I am seeing lot of which I don't expect considering how shows like this are made with HD in mind now, is the lack of attention to detail. Last night we had a screen filling shot of the pilot's insurance policy and bizarrely it was actually text ripped from the terms of use for a Nokia web site! What's also ironic is that the text was actually talking about how everything on the site is copyrighted, which I assume includes that copy.

The next page was a report about some kind of insurance motion and that was text from some kind of news article about disturbances in the downtown region of some place.

This happened in Heroes a few weeks back as well.

They should have text that says something to the effect "If you can read this, you must be watching in HD"

Another fun episode last night. Like others, Pushing Daisies has become my favorite series of all the new shows.

I love this show, it's refreshing, quirky, and frankly when I watch it I feel like I'm watching a movie. I love the way it's filmed, the bright surreal colors and sets.

Did anyone have problems last night with the HD Feed? My local affiliate KATU in Portland had the show with pillar boxes for almost 2/3 of the show...kinda spoiled the movie feel.

And Kristin Chenoweth's rack didn't hurt the episode at all...

I couldn't help but notice that also. She is definitely getting more exposure than she did on West Wing. I really love this show. I just wish Fox would have given, another Bryan Fuller creation, Wonderfalls more of a chance a few years ago.

I love this show, it's refreshing, quirky, and frankly when I watch it I feel like I'm watching a movie. I love the way it's filmed, the bright surreal colors and sets.

Did anyone have problems last night with the HD Feed? My local affiliate KATU in Portland had the show with pillar boxes for almost 2/3 of the show...kinda spoiled the movie feel.

See my post above ;)

Sounds like it was just KATU being clueless though - nobody else has complained about it...

Did you also notice that KATU fouled up a commercial break and cut off part of the show? The commercial break before the scene with the sisters singing was a screw up.

Alright, this show is growing on me. I can officially say that I like it! My initial impression was that everyone was trying to out-quirky the rest, but I gave it another chance and I must say that every character has his/her own personality and the interplay between them is great.

If you could only describe this show with a single word, it would have to be 'whimsical'. Last night may have been the best episode to date.

Its become clear that Chi McBride is very similar in tone and purpose to the Mandy Patinkin character (Rube/Ruby?) in DLM. In fact, I've been noticing a number of similarities between the cast make-ups of both shows.

_____________________________________________________
Palladin

Chance favors the prepared mind

Its become clear that Chi McBride is very similar in tone and purpose to the Mandy Patinkin character (Rube/Ruby?) in DLM. In fact, I've been noticing a number of similarities between the cast make-ups of both shows.


Bryan Fuller said the idea for this show came from an unused storyline on DLM about George encountering someone who could bring back the dead before she had chance to reap them.

OT: I agree about Wonder Falls. I caught it kind of late in its short life and was sad to see it go. But then again, it was the same network that never properly handled Firefly either. :rolleyes:

I see your point, but I think the fact that she developed an affinity for the aunts that overrode her desire to get Chuck in trouble is more human than just being a spiteful, revengeful person.

Don't the great stories work because of human weakness?

As I think it over more, I suppose the revenge story is a bit warmed over too many times. In order for Olive to remain a sympathetic character I guess she has to take the high road.

It could be argued that since PD isn't like anything else on TV, maybe this is just one more way it isn't like anything else on TV.

Another great episode. This show just keeps getting better and better.

That's what threw me off. We seemed to be building up to a darker view of humanity, and instead Olive let's the whole thing go.

Really?

So far one of the more interesting aspects of this show has been the interlacing of really orange gooey goodness with a more sinister tone. I would have rather seen Olive take the low road, and then somehow her attempt fails (I mean, there is an armed criminal in the windmill, right?).

Seemed like a waste of a story arc for it to just be, "And Olive felt sorry for the aunts and does the right thing."

Remember: she didn't do it for Chuck. She did it because she likes the Aunts too much to hurt them. If she weren't friendly with them, Chuck would be toast.

In addition, by not springing the trap now, it leaves something in her back pocket for later - and something to hold over Chuck's head if they get on the wrongs sides of each other. The previews for next week could potentially produce that very situation.

Loved last night's episode. How great was it to have Olive be a horse jockey in her previous career? Nice to see the relationship between Olive and Chuck changing into something more friendly instead of them just being rivals for Ned.

Chi McBride gets the best one-liners for the show.

This show has some of the best writing of any TV show of recent memory. The dialogue between the characters is so well written I find myself constantly skipping back to make sure I heard everything (or just to hear it again).

I am glad it got renewed for a full season because the ratings decline could be alarming if it was not already renewed

I don't know if this was a local issue or not. Act 2 of the last night's episode was out of lip sync around ~160ms delayed while the acts 1 and 3-5 were OK. That number is close to the AC3 187 ms delay. The local commercial before the show was also out of lip sync.

I am glad it got renewed for a full season because the ratings decline could be alarming if it was not already renewed

Last night was Halloween, and Pushing Daisies airs during a prime trick-or-treating hour. It dominated everything else airing at 8:00 (finishing 30% ahead of second place), so I wouldn't be too concerned.

I'd be more concerned about an extended strike causing an extended hiatus, and Pushing Daisies bleeding viewers in the second half of the season like Jericho did.

I hate those long breaks, they are the most stupid thing networks can do and I'll never understand why they do them.

Had this show stored on dvr and finally started watching it. It reminds me most of Amelie. This is one of those things you either give into its whimsy or get tired of the preciousness. I'm in the first category so far. I don't know how far they can take the premise, though.

At first I thought the girl was Zooey Deschanel, then found myself wishing it WERE Zooey Deschanel. I think ZD is adorable, but this actress is growing on me too. also, doesn't the guy look a bit like George Lazenby?

Had this show stored on dvr and finally started watching it. It reminds me most of Amelie. This is one of those things you either give into its whimsy or get tired of the preciousness. I'm in the first category so far. I don't know how far they can take the premise, though.

At first I thought the girl was Zooey Deschanel, then found myself wishing it WERE Zooey Deschanel. I think ZD is adorable, but this actress is growing on me too. also, doesn't the guy look a bit like George Lazenby?

It reminds me of Lemony Snickets. Anyway, the commercials prior to the season made me think the girl was Zooey Deschanel as well.

I feel like someone's playing a joke on me every week. There's always an issue with lip sync for me. I really like the show, but I'm not sure how long they can keep it up. It's so brutally cute, and I'm a guy saying this!:p

Had this show stored on dvr and finally started watching it. It reminds me most of Amelie. This is one of those things you either give into its whimsy or get tired of the preciousness. I'm in the first category so far. I don't know how far they can take the premise, though.

At first I thought the girl was Zooey Deschanel, then found myself wishing it WERE Zooey Deschanel. I think ZD is adorable, but this actress is growing on me too. also, doesn't the guy look a bit like George Lazenby?

I also DVR this show and have caught myself actually watching it later and later in the week, when I've run out of other stuff to watch. In my case I think I'm really getting whimsy fatigue.

Really liked that they gave Ellen Greene an opportunity to sing. Wasn't that Pee Wee Herman in the sewer? This show continues to be the best of the season.

Really liked that they gave Ellen Greene an opportunity to sing. Wasn't that Pee Wee Herman in the sewer? This show continues to be the best of the season.

The very same.

I missed the first episode and it's not on abc.com, nor is it on itunes - is it available any where else for online viewing or download? I watched the other early ones on abc.com before I started recording on my Tivo.

EDIT: Nevermind. found something that will work for me

Some of the more "whimsical" moments from this last episode:

"Follow the yellow thick hose"
The aunt wearing a "Jews for cheeses" sweatshirt
The pop-up bookstore for adults ("Pop-ups aren't just for kids anymore")
Emerson reading Knit Wit magazine
"Death by scratch-and-sniff"
"Doesn't anyone just use guns anymore?"

Sure there were more.

This show is the best new show this season. The writing is creative. The cinematography is a visual delight in HD. The icing on the cake for this series is Kristin Chenoweth's (Olive Snook) cleavage, which on this weeks episode we saw a lot of.:)

Loved "The Birds" reference with Molly Shannon, out on a boat, as Tippi Hedren's character.

It is DEFINITELY my favorite HD show, really makes the TV shine. And yes, that Birds scene was a hoot!

Loved "The Birds" reference with Molly Shannon, out on a boat, as Tippi Hedren's character.

Yeah I liked it too, but it was weird, wasn't it?
I almost think they added it after seeing how Tippi-esque she looked in costume and make up. Why else add it?
Although, I guess it does play into the bird theme of the show.

Nonetheless, I continue to really enjoy this show.


Mitch

Is the move to the 9pm East/8pm Central time slot permanent or was that a one-shot "special" time? I haven't been able to find any confirmation one way or the other.

This show is the best new show this season. The writing is creative. The cinematography is a visual delight in HD. The icing on the cake for this series is Kristin Chenoweth's (Olive Snook) cleavage, which on this weeks episode we saw a lot of.:)

Yeah, they really need to give those sweater puppies their own screen credit. :D Easy to see why Sorkin flipped over her...

I'm guessing the move was a one time only thing to accomodate the Shrek special.

Yeah, they really need to give those sweater puppies their own screen credit. :D Easy to see why Sorkin flipped over her...

For photos and the text of Kristin's inteview with FHM magazine from 2 years ago, click here (http://www.fhmonline.com/girls_girls_of_fhm_article.asp?cnl_id=0&stn_id=0&idx_id=734&gofp_slot=1). Click each thumbnail for a new pic and more interview.

For photos and the text of Kristin's inteview with FHM magazine from 2 years ago, click here (http://www.fhmonline.com/girls_girls_of_fhm_article.asp?cnl_id=0&stn_id=0&idx_id=734&gofp_slot=1). Click each thumbnail for a new pic and more interview.

And this is a chick who's over 40! I don't know that there's been that combination of smoldering babeness (and willingness to "let it all hang out" so to speak) + raw multi-disciplined talent since Bernadette Peters. (No, I'm not kidding; she was smokin' in her prime and is still pretty dang fine.)

Just an aside, even though Chenowith doesn't remotely look her age, the fact that I still know, makes her "too old" for Ned in the show and throws a monkey wrench in my acceptance of the character. Silly, I know, but there you are.

No comment on this weeks episode? I'm still trying to figure why they put in a shot form "Groundhog Day". The reveal at the end was very surprising.

Talk about being killed with kindness...

I'm still trying to figure why they put in a shot form "Groundhog Day".

I'm glad I wasn't the only one who noticed that. I had to back-up and pause it on my DVR to make sure I wasn't imagining things!

Guess I missed it. What I miss?

No comment on this weeks episode? I'm still trying to figure why they put in a shot form "Groundhog Day". The reveal at the end was very surprising.

Talk about being killed with kindness...

Looks like they were setting up little cliffhangers (Chuck's real Mom was a Darling!, and PeeWee suspects her "death" secret!, and Olive overheard it too!) to keep people stoked for when the show returns. No clue when that will be, post-strike. I do enjoy the heck out of this program. :)

On Olive's decorative bed pillow:

"Horse Lovers are Stable People" :)

I do enjoy the heck out of this program. :)
And who wouldn't?:rolleyes:

ABC has picked up “Pushing Daisies” for next season. Apparently no more new episodes will be shot for this year.

The entire story about the nine shows ABC picked up today is here:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13081404#post13081404

Does anyone know if there is a place online (legal) that you can watch the episodes? ABC.com is missing 5 episodes.

Does anyone know if there is a place online (legal) that you can watch the episodes? ABC.com is missing 5 episodes.
Can't help with the on-line sources. But for those who missed it, it was announced in the Blu-Ray forums that the Pushing Daises season one set (all 9 episodes) will be released on Blu-Ray and DVD on September 16. See http://www.dvdactive.com/news/releases/pushing-daisies.html for the details, such as they are. So if you can wait 3.5 months and have or get a Blu-Ray player, the season 1 episodes will be available in HD.