Intermission

I really hope I can get my Dark Shadows viewing schedule back to normal soon because I prefer the format of an episode or two a day as opposed to hours in a marathon. It serves better in smaller doses I'm sure than all posted at once. To explain my situation is that I don't have the money to buy the coffin-complete dvd set of the entire series, so I rely on netflix to service me. I just hope the long/short waits will not hinder me during this process, but I figure eventually receiving copies in order will be hard to come by. But, thanks to anyone who reads my reviews and visits the blog. I hope I bring some enthusiasm to the written word because following the show has been a joy. That said, the shabby production and technical miscues have been rampant lately. I appreciate those who perform in front of the camera even more when you see how saddled they were with 13 days, trying to get an episode right. Shadows of cameras--hell I even saw the camera in one shot--are as clear as ever, but the characters and stories seem to alleviate the technical bumbles that often stick out like a sore thumb. Again, I don't hold those who operate the cameras responsible, but the rush of those involved in producing the show without enough takes, and in such a short amount of time, to get it right, shows badly sometimes. I realize that this appeals to some--all the problems that exist bring a camp value to the show--but I prefer good storytelling and strong characters and do believe Dark Shadows Creative tried to do that despite the numerous set-backs and failings. One thing regarding their storytelling that does tend to get on my nerves are endless scenes that provide the same cyclical pattern where characters converse over the same topics, the same solution often resulting. Twice, even three times, okay I understand its a soap, but Sam and Maggie discussing his secret so many times has really become burdensome. That and his going to the bottle...the broken record. It's the same with Roger going to the Brandy every damn time he walks into the living room. I understand he needs to settle his nerves, but Phew does it get old.

I'm also trying an "Intermission" format that better informs those who might read from time to time when I'm musing or not writing a review as much as producing some thoughts and opinions on the show, its characters, or a storyline, performance, technical snafu (or triumph: the opening book was marvelously done) that goes through my mind.