gleeps

Admittedly, critics of this show had some reason, as the first few episodes seemed to solely concentrate on the characters' promiscuity. But give the show another chance, if you gave up on it. The show keeps getting better. It's pretty telling that some of the best story lines don't have anything to do with sex. Tune in if only to see the touching believability that goes on between Justin and his mother. I've never seen the actress who plays his mother, but she has created a character of more depth than some of the guys on the show. The most boring character is that of Emmett. He has the typical role of "gay best friend" even though he's already surrounded by gay people!

No matter how you slice it, though, "Queer as Folk" is still a definite cut above prime time major network fare and worth a look if you're into edgy fare.

A fascinating example of glossy Hollywood film-making. No, it's not good. But the movie is shot gorgeously, the score is sumptuous and oddly touching, and the movie is often hilariously campy. Some lame stabs are taken at making the material more relevant and serious (Kathy Bates character is a cancer survivor; lesbian overtones are rampant) but these just make it more absurd. Even if you haven't seen the original, you'll figure out the "surprise" ending a mile away. And a thriller could not possibly be plotted more carelessly. But you've got to give points to a movie that dares to make Sharon Stone a math teacher (at an all-boys school, no less!). Watch and marvel at how Stone gleefully tramples over doormat Isabella Adjani in every scene as if she's a drag-queen version of herself. Many will find this movie boring, but if you go in expecting a campy, silly good time, you won't be disappointed.

Melodrama of the highest order. Bates is a marvel as Dolores, running through the gamut of emotions from frightening to heartbreaking. She's even better here than in her Oscar-winning role in "Misery." The supporting actors, especially Judy Parfitt and Christopher Plummer, are memorable as well. Much has been said about the eclipse sequence--rarely has such a great combination of cinematography, subtle special effects, acting and writing come together so successfully. The way this sequence is delayed and teased will have you riveted to the screen 20 minutes before it even begins. Why can't they make more movies this smart?