Turn off the news on the day when Donald Trump is once more inaugurated as the President; this is a luxury some don’t have, but an option for those searching for different methods of occupying their time on January 20. Is there a more American endeavor than finding solace and enjoyment amidst challenging circumstances? This is deftly displayed via Danny McBride’s character in his series, a charmlessly appealing protagonist who nevertheless garners our support. Essentially, I discover myself viewing Eastbound because its bleak humor offers a potent diversion from the harsh realities of the world.
Rather than participating in the concert, I’ve resolved to finally engage with FX’s The Americans, a decision that is overdue. Despite being an informed millennial, I have yet to experience the Emmy-awarded spy thriller with now-married Kerri Russell and Matthew Rhys during its original phase. What could possibly rival the escapism provided by good old-fashioned television during the induction of a new political regime? Besides, engaging with a series that ponders the complexities of American identity could offer necessary insights as inauguration day approaches.
Additionally, it provides the opportunity to observe a love story blossoming. As an alternative, try rewatching episodes of The Barefoot Contessa for an immediate calming effect. That indeed is my plan! Concentrate on classical British dramas that provide an opportunity to escape, especially ones that are rich with romance. Hulu’s Rivals serves as the perfect choice, offering a tantalizing adaptation of Jilly Cooper’s riveting novels, set amidst the local intrigue of rural England during the 1980s.
Have you ever heard of Challengers and its heated story arc? Meet the protagonist Rupert Campbell-Black, an ex-Olympic equestrian whose life now involves risqué tennis matches. At the heart of Rivals, there lies an ongoing conflict between Rupert and Lord Tony Baddingham, a television heavyweight who entangles Irish journalist Declan O’Hara. However, the crux of the show lies in its explorations of love, particularly the slowly developing affection between Rupert and the radiant Taggie O’Hara, Declan’s much younger daughter.
The narrative thread is one you can securely attach yourself to, thanks to the confirmation of a second season. On the day of the inauguration, I plan to occupy myself with visits to the theater to view A Complete Unknown and The Brutalist. The prospect of spending time in a space requiring silent contemplation, away from digital distractions, feels like a tonic for my mental well-being.
As world events unfold, I also intend to immerse myself in a show centered around exploitative billionaires, corporate giants, and ordinary folks seeking solace through brain surgery; I’m referring to the upcoming season of Severance, not the news. If reality proves too daunting, I recommend journeying into the world of Lynch, a departed director renowned for his ability to evoke familiarity and eeriness in unison.
Film enthusiasts frequently use the term “Lynchian” to describe his work, and if you’re uncertain why, take the time to explore his universe come Monday. Fans of Survivor, listen up — consider diving into The Challenge. Begin with the T.J. Lavin era, encompassing “The Gauntlet II” and subsequent series.
Over time, this show has evolved to echo Survivor in certain ways: it demands a higher level of physical prowess, and the game rules shift with each new season. It’s amusing without demanding too much from your mind, and by the end of each season, you’ll find yourself championing your favored players. Unlike Survivor, The Challenge frequently features returning contestants, leading to intricate long-term alliances that make for intriguing viewing.
Alternatively, consider an online journey to the United Kingdom to follow the current progression of their version of The Traitors. One might recall the brilliance of The West Wing, and revisiting it when times are bleak appears to intensify its brilliance (let’s exclude the seasons produced after Aaron Sorkin’s departure). Rather than merely praising the indisputably excellent writing, it suffices to say that witnessing it in present times is almost devastatingly poignant given its idolizing depiction of a nation’s people and potential.
It’s worth noting, an episode titled ‘The End of the World’ from an antiquated TV Western made waves in 2016, coinciding with Trump’s initial election. It’s worth revisiting for its uncanny relevance: it features a villain—named Trump—who is unveiled by Texas Ranger (played by Robert Culp) as a swindler in a small frontier community.
Noteworthy quotes such as, ‘You’re a liar, Trump!’ permeate the script, taking on newfound resonance at current. A character resembling Trump even threatens with lawsuits, ‘Be cautious, son, I can sue you!’ upon suspicion of being exposed. There isn’t much physical resemblance between Lawrence Dobkin and Donald, but some similarities do emerge in their vocal delivery, especially during heated initial rallies.
Regrettably, Trackdown isn’t available on streaming platforms, but the ‘The End of the World’ episode can be located on YouTube. At times, it’s appealing to briefly plunge into a reality where transport is cost-free, mail carriers are esteemed, and kindness reigns — the realm of make-believe. King Friday is at the helm here, but even with autocratic power, his rule leans towards benevolence.