Why I Don't Study Past 7pm

The wealth of new channels that I've been treated to lately have brought me not only a new way to waste time (flicking from station to station takes much longer than it used to), but they have also brought me two new shows to love. Usually, I don't develop addictions to shows I watch on ACTUAL television. The ads drive me slightly insane, both those that feature in the middle of the show and those in the week leading up to it. Sadly, putting your hands over your ears and humming loudly so the plotline isn't spoiled is not socially acceptable (apparently). But since 7mate, Gem, Go and others have graced my screen, I've become an ACTUAL television convert. This is for two reasons: Big Bang Theory and How I Met Your Mother.

I recently read an article that suggested Big Bang Theory was a show for guys. Sure, the cast is mostly male, but I fundamentally disagree. I don't think it's a show for men. I think it's a show for people that feel just slightly out of the ordinary. In fact, it might even be a celebration of those people. While I adore many shows with an abundance of beautiful and popular people (Gossip Girl, The O.C, One Tree Hill... the list goes on), it is refreshing to come to know and love a cast of characters that are more interested in science than glamourous parties and (gasp!) not always so beautiful. Of course, Penny (Kaley Cuoco) is in some ways the exception. However, even she has her quirks that make her all the more endearing. This show is well worth a look.

For years now, I'd been hearing about this show called How I Met Your Mother. For whatever reason, I never bothered to see what it was like. Probably because it was always on ACTUAL television, and never in a box-set sitting in my loungeroom cupboard. It wasn't until I went killing time on the plane earlier this year that I discovered exactly why this show was so loved. It's a cliche, but the characters are people you can imagine being friends with. Well, except maybe Barney (Neil Patrick Harris). I'm sure we all know many people who think they are Barney, but only on television could there be someone so fabulous. Lily (Alyson Hannigan) and Marshall (Jason Segel) are the couple everyone wants to be, Robyn (Cobie Smulders) is ultra cool and Ted (Josh Radnor) is the lovable hopeless romantic you can't help cheering for. And plus, it's really, really funny. The humour they share is exactly the kind of humour you can imagine sharing with your own goofy friends, and that's what makes it so special.

After becoming a loyal HIMYM fan, I started exploring what the other extra channels had to offer and stumbled across Big Bang Theory. The rest, as they say, is history!

Perfection: Offspring Season 2 comes to a close.

If there was a textbook checklist for a memorable season finale, the Offspring episode aired on Wednesday night would tick all the right boxes. A wedding, a beautiful dress, family feuds, a pregnancy and questions about paternity (the last two may or may not be related). Of course, the most important requirement is something romantic, preferably involving a choice between two loves and lots of running down the street looking frantic. Yep, Offspring had it all.

For those who haven't been keeping up to date, here's a bit of background. Nina (Asher Keddie) is in a state of confusion after the return of former flame Chris (Don Hany), just when everything was starting to go well with Patrick (Matthew Le Nevez). All this is happening as Nina's sister Billie (Kat Stewart) and her on-again off-again beau Mick (Eddie Perfect) are gearing up to put a year of hard knocks behind them and tie the knot. Really, it was always going to be a fantastic finale. But the extra touches that were oh-so-Offspring made this episode extra special.

The wedding is to be held in a house that Proudman Real Estate is in charge of selling: a bit awkward, seeing as the owner is unaware that their property is being used as a marriage venue. Only the Proudmans would think to do something like this. With friends providing the music for when Billie walks down the aisle and another acting as marriage celebrant, we're reminded of the close-knit extended family that we've come to know and love. And then, a twist, that sees the wedding end up somewhere even appropriate.

Meanwhile, devoted fans of either Patrick or Chris were screaming at the television as Nina awkwardly um-ed and ahh-ed about which devastatingly gorgeous man was right for her. It remains unclear which choice she will make until the final few minutes. Personally, I was cheering at this stage, and something tells me lots of other viewers were too. Her decision felt right, like you couldn't believe you'd ever thought she might do something else. Everything was happy, everything was perfect and it was looking like it was about to be the most blissful season ending ever. But hang on, this is Offspring we're talking about. It couldn't have finished without an unexpected bombshell, could it?

Then again, that bombshell is a blessing- it means we're going to be treated to more of this show. And when it's a show as good as this, that is what really makes a perfect finale.

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Crownies: the verdict is in.

There's something especially great about a good Aussie drama. Maybe it's the element of pride, or the familiar landscape. Perhaps it's the fact that we're so surprised we came up with something worth watching, that it becomes far more addictive than it actually should be. For whatever reason, shows like Seachange and Love My Way hold a special place in this TV addict's heart. This is why when the new ABC series Crownies premiered on Thursday night, my hopes were high. Despite continued disappointment, the wonder of an Aussie drama that gets it right had me holding onto the chance that another one was on its way.

So did it hit the spot? Not exactly. After weeks of intense promotion, it was definitely a let-down. The ad I'd seen at least 5 times made it look better than it actually was- less intrigue and glamour, more unlikable characters and an obvious attempt to seem gritty. The 2 hour long premiere seemed to drag on, and I found myself looking at the clock in hopes that 10.30 would soon arrive.

That said, it wasn't all bad. There were some impressive performances. Indiana Evans (formerly of Home and Away and H20: Just Add Water) as Tatum Novak, the bubbly and friendly one, was a standout. Her friendship with the endearingly hopeless Richard Stirling (Hamish Michael) will be one to watch over the next installments. The mystery of who released a highly sensitive brief to the media gives another reason to keep watching. This aspect of the plot was done well, as the viewer was given reason to believe it could have been any of the young crownies that betrayed their friends and colleagues.

Despite initial disappointment, I'll be tuning in again next Thursday. This is partly because of the strengths I've just discussed, and partly because my faith in the occasional brilliance of home-grown drama won't allow me to give up on this one just yet.

Don't Miss: A Very Glee Christmas

There's something special about Christmas episodes. The snow, the decorations, the woolley jumpers with Christmas patterns... It's enough to make a pop culture lover want to invest their life's savings in a ticket to the US for the festive season. There's one such episode I've watched recently that was especially good- A Very Glee Christmas.

In my opinion, Glee is often quite a hit-and-miss show. While the reasons for its success are obvious (a new batch of pretty teen idols, catchy tunes and inclusion of minority groups), I don't think that every episode is necessarily worth watching. Sometimes, they just get a bit boring with long musical sequences that fail to advance the plot in any way. Plus, the ditzyness of Brittany and evil genius of Sue can get predictable when used in the same way over and over again.

Then there are the episodes that remind me why I bothered to shell out 30 dollars for the box set in the first place. A Very Glee Christmas was one of these episodes. After discovering that his girlfriend Brittany (Heather Morris) hasn't given up on believing in Santa, Artie (Kevin McHale) enlists the help of the Glee gang to maintain the fantasy. When Brittany asks Santa for something no one can provide, the plan runs into some obstacles.

What follows is the kind of cheesy storyline that you can't help but fall for. While there are lot of things the Glee folk would like to change but can't, somehow a little Christmas magic intervenes to give everyone a happy holiday. That magic has less to do with elves and reindeers, and more to do with being together.

Yep, I told you it was cheesy. But, come on, Christmas is an inherently cheesy occasion. It's kind of unavoidable when there's all that holiday spirit floating around. Go on, just enjoy it. You know you want to.

It's that time again...

The Logies. For the small percentage of us that actually care about Australian television, it's at least mildly exciting. Despite the fact that the talent pool is so small, and the nominations invariably read like the credits of Home and Away and Neighbours, you can't deny the fun of seeing our TV personalities all dressed up and hoping for glory.

So here are a few of my picks:

Most Outstanding Actress

Nominees: Asher Keddie (Offspring), Catherine McClements (Rush), Claire van der Boom (Sisters of War), Justine Clarke (Tangle) and Kat Stewart (Offspring)

My Pick: Kat Stewart, Offspring

She may have been less likeable on first glance than neurotic Nina (Asher Keddie), but Kat Stewart's Billie didn't take long to become my favourite. Not one for keeping her thoughts to herself, Billie is rude, critical and suspicious of anyone who tries to love her. In my opinion, Stewart was the standout talent of the series, especially for the scenes with on-again off-again boyfriend Mick (Eddie Perfect).

Most Popular Drama Series

Nominees: Home and Away, Neighbours, Offspring, Packed to the Rafters, Rush, Underbelly

My pick: Offspring

It may have nothing on Love My Way, but once you forget who it's coming from, Offspring is funny and sweet in its own right. Families form some odd shapes these days, and Offspring embraces this oddity with warmth and humour. Shot in trendy Fitzroy, any hipster worth their weight in Penguin paperbacks will recognise local hang-outs while watching- a nice change from the usual fictional suburban Aussie dramas! All in all, definitely worth a look.

And the big one.... Most Popular Personality on Television- Gold Logie

Nominees: Adam Hills (Spicks and Specks), Asher Keddie (Offspring), Chrissie Swan (The Circle), Jessica Marais (Packed to the Rafters), Karl Stefanovic (Today), Rebecca Gibney (Packed to the Rafters)

My Pick: Rebecca Gibney (Packed to the Rafters)

I've always felt that the Gold Logie should go to someone who's been around for a while, an Aussie showbiz name that most would recognise. Not only does Gibney fill these criteria, but she is also a key part of one the most popular Australian shows in recent years. If anyone needs convincing, the show itself may just get her over line.

Full nomination lists are here (thanks to them for my lists!) : http://au.tv.yahoo.com/the-logie-awards/nominees/article/-/article/9127700/tv-week-gold-logie-most-popular-personality-on-television/

Globes not so Golden for Aussies

After all the hype and build-up, Jacki Weaver has missed out on the Best Supporting Actress award at the Golden Globes. Although her role in Animal Kingdom was disturbingly effective, the result doesn't surprise me as it was not, in my opinion, the film's stand-out performance. Ben Mendelsohn as Pope was terrifying in a way that Weaver did not quite reach.

I was disappointed to hear that Geoffrey Rush has also been overlooked- as his performance in The King's Speech was nothing short of brilliant. He brought to life the eccentric and loyal Lionel Logue, speech therapist to King George VI (Colin Firth). Firth did take home an award (Best Actor in a Drama) which was undoubtedly deserved. Mr. Darcy stereotypes were long forgotten as he portrayed a man burdened by self-doubt in an unimaginably difficult position.

Fingers crossed that Firth takes the Oscar for Best Actor and that Rush picks up some awards elsewhere. As for Weaver, she is to be congratulated on her achievements thus far and is taking the loss graciously, which is always a sign of a respectable performer.

Box Sets Make The World Go Round

Dedication is a beautiful thing. I may not show much commitment to learning to drive or keeping my room clean, but I am unfailingly diligent in spending time with my box sets. You should, therefore, be able to trust me when I tell you that if you like your pop culture, you will like at least one of these shows!

LOVE MY WAY

One of those brilliant Aussie dramas that I wish there were more of, Love My Way is the perfect mixture of funny, edgy and heart-wrenchingly sad. The events of the first season will stay with you long after you return the DVD (overdue, no doubt), so be prepared for some heavy viewing. As each character developed I grew to love them more and more, especially the effortlessly cool Frankie Paige (Claudia Karvan). Ben Mendelsohn is brilliant as quirky ex-drug addict Lewis, and I challenge you not to love his angry but caring son Dylan (Sam Parsonson). The extended familythat Frankie has created will become your favourites for their humanity, their flaws, their humour and their guts. Absolutely worth every second.

DAWSON'S CREEK

The nineties was a golden era for pop culture- the Spice Girls, Savage Garden, Britney Spears (the early days) and of course, Dawson's. It might seem a bit dated now, but its story is timeless- girl next door loves boy next door. Dawson Leery (James Van Der Beek) is a dorky, idealistic teenager, an aspiring filmaker, and best friend (or as he would say, soul mate) to Joey Potter (Katie Holmes). They've known each other forever, and loved each other for just as long- though Dawson is just starting to realise it. The show was a pioneer in its day- it shocked parents everywhere with its frank discussion of sex and gay storylines- but looking at it 2011, it is endearingly wholesome. It might be a teen show, but you're never too old to start watching it- there'll be something there you can relate to. After all, every Dawson has a Joey, and every Joey has a Dawson.

GILMORE GIRLS

I've saved the best for last. Guaranteed to fix any bad mood, Gilmore Girls is the perfect mix of humour, love, junk food and family. Rory Gilmore (Alexis Bledel) is every parent's dream- sweet, innocent, diligent and successful. Lorelai Gilmore (Lauren Graham) is every daughter's dream- fun, understanding and stylish enough to lend you her clothes. I once read Gilmore Girls described as a utopia, and I can't think of a better way to put it. The boys are cute and almost always interested, the burgers aren't fattening and the man who cooks the burgers might just be the love of your life. You should hate these women. But you don't, because Gilmore Girls doesn't inspire cynicism or jealousy- it just inspires heart.