Entertainment Binge

By Isaac White.

I must admit that, as I began writing this week’s edition, I encountered a couple of challenges. First, I was tempted to procrastinate, and second, I experienced a mild case of writer’s block. It wasn’t exactly writer’s block, but I struggled to transfer my thoughts onto the screen for some reason. Fear not, dear readers, I overcame these obstacles ensuring that you won’t miss out on my uniquely insightful perspectives on your viewing options. By now, I hope you realize that I’m joking.

Moving on, I want to briefly discuss something that might pique your curiosity. As a self-proclaimed long-winded individual, I’ll try to keep it as concise as possible. Some of you may wonder if I enjoy true crime series because I have never reviewed any true crime viewing content. The answer is yes – I’m quite fond of the genre, which plays a significant role in my wife’s and my viewing habits.

So why don’t I ever review true crime series or documentaries? The truth is, I’m not entirely comfortable delving into such content in this publication. However, if you ever encounter me in person and wish to discuss true crime, feel free to strike up a conversation. Just bear in mind, if you approach me out of the blue to talk about true crime, I might jokingly assume that you could end up being the subject of a true crime investigation. Rest assured, that truly is just a joke.

I mention this only because someone recently asked me about true crime and its relation to my weekly discussions with all of you. While it’s not the sole reason I’m addressing the subject, I’ve certainly delved deeper than a mere mention. You know those moments when you think you’re incredibly clever, only to realize you need to tone it down a bit? I just had one of those and I decided to call myself out on it for all of you to read.

Anyway, I wanted to touch on this topic because I recently watched an interview with Dr. Ann Wolbert Burgess, one of the original criminal profilers in U.S. history. Notably, Dr. Burgess is said to be one of the main inspirations for the character Dr. Wendy Carr on the Netflix original show, Mindhunter.

Admittedly, it’s taken me roughly 400 words to reach this point, but setting aside my writing delays and self-admiration, I’d like to discuss Mindhunter briefly. In my opinion, it’s one of the greatest TV shows of all time. Please don’t bombard me with arguments that Netflix or other streaming services don’t qualify as TV—I’m too old for that debate. To me, any series that follows a TV format is a TV show, regardless of the platform it’s viewed on.

Seeing Dr. Burgess discuss her career prompted me to consider rewatching Mindhunter. My wife and I agreed that revisiting this exceptional series would be a fantastic idea.

For those unfamiliar with the show, it’s loosely based on three real-life pioneers in criminology and criminal profiling, with the series portraying them as the originators of criminal profiling. Of course, I’m not suggesting that this is the complete history, and I’m well aware that there are other professionals who have contributed to the field. However, the show presents a particular perspective, and to be honest, if I wanted an exact account, I would watch documentaries or interviews featuring the actual individuals upon whom these characters are based. I need to be more concise—that last sentence nearly turned into a “graph.” Yes, I’m feeling quite clever for using “graph” as shorthand for “paragraph.” Time to dial it back, my friend.

The premise of the show revolves around the origins of criminal profiling, as we watch three pioneers in the field delve into this fascinating area of study. “Mindhunter” features two FBI agents, Holden Ford (played by Jonathan Groff) and Bill Tench (played by Holt McCallany), who collaborate with a civilian psychologist, Dr. Wendy Carr (played by Anna Torv). Together, they embark on a journey to explore the minds of some of history’s most deranged yet calculating killers.

There is no need to delve into the graphic details of the show’s content, as it may not be everyone’s preferred viewing choice. However, I felt compelled to write about “Mindhunter” this week, as it is such a captivating show. As I mentioned earlier, a 20-minute interview I observed with the real-life Dr. Wendy Carr (Burgess) inspired me to rewatch the entire series.

“Mindhunter” could even rank among my top 5 favorite shows of all time. This brings to mind the idea of creating a piece on various “top 5” lists, such as movies, TV shows, actors (regardless of gender, as I no longer differentiate between actor and actress), directors, best mob movies, best adult animations, and so on. It would be interesting to see what you, as readers, think about the prospect of writing articles on top 5 lists.

During my recent contemplation, I wondered if “Mindhunter” would make it into my top 5 favorite shows. My top 4 are constant: 1. “Seinfeld” – a masterpiece unmatched by any other show. The following three, “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” “The Wire,” and “The Sopranos,” can be interchanged, as I find it challenging to rank them. These four shows revolutionized television and remain timeless classics.

“Mindhunter” is incredibly close in quality to these iconic shows, and while it may not have changed television, its excellence might lead you to believe it did. Based on the book “Mindhunter: Inside the FBI’s Elite Serial Crime Unit” by John E. Douglas and Mark Olshaker, the show’s creation owes much to David Fincher’s involvement.

Fincher directed some of my all-time favorite movies, including “Se7en” and “Zodiac.” Both films are brilliant, and “Mindhunter” feels like an extended version of them. This is appealing because it allows more time for character development, with superb writing and acting that make it feel as though you’re watching the original criminal profilers at work.

The show is not only about serial killers; it also explores the humanity of the three main characters as they deal with everyday complications. The raw and authentic depiction of the human condition is evident not only in the protagonists but also in the serial killers portrayed on screen. I encourage those of you who are not put off by shows with the more graphic subject matter to watch “Mindhunter” if you haven’t already – and if you have, consider watching it again.

By the way, I recently watched “80 For Brady.” This was originally going to be the meat and potatoes of my review, but I got sidetracked. The film stars Lily Tomlin, Sally Field, Jane Fonda, and Rita Moreno as four senior New England Patriots fans determined to attend the 2017 Super Bowl between the Pats and the Atlanta Falcons.

I want to keep this brief, as I’ve already discussed another show at length. “80 For Brady” is a delightful film with heartfelt and touching moments. While addressing some difficult issues, the movie remains warm and humorous.

Trust me, it’s worth watching. I’ve been a fan of “Grace and Frankie” since its Netflix debut, which is unsurprising considering that Tomlin and Fonda have been making us laugh for four decades as a duo in various projects.

“80 For Brady” showcases the chemistry between Tomlin and Fonda while adding Field and Moreno to the mix, creating a dynamic quartet of women determined to see their team and favorite player in the Super Bowl. I won’t spoil anything; I’m just saying that’s the level of determination they have. That they won’t be denied. Giving away too much? Maybe.

Anyway, thanks for reading, and until next week…