Television
The Underwatched Series "Somebody Somewhere" Returns for Its Final Season
2024-12-09
Among the plethora of series and shows that often go unnoticed, this evening's lineup stands out. From heartwarming tales to intense documentaries and mystical sci-fi, there's something for every viewer. Let's dive in and explore the world of entertainment that awaits.

The Emotional Journey of "Somebody Somewhere"

At 10 pm on Sky Comedy, we encounter a remarkable series. It tells the story of a woman who leaves the big city to return to her smalltown Kansas childhood home and finds her feet. This poignant and belly-laugh-packed emotional journey is a blend of crude, sweet, and heartbreaking moments. Its artsy vibe fits perfectly at Sundance. The glorious final season begins with a double bill where Sam (Bridget Everett) considers dog adoption while her erstwhile roommate Joel moves in with his boyfriend, Geoff. Brace yourself for an hour of TV that takes you from weepy to joyful, including the filthiest rendition of "She'll Be Coming Round the Mountain" you'll ever hear.

The way this series captures the essence of life's ups and downs is truly captivating. It shows us the struggles and joys of returning home and starting anew. It's a story that resonates with many, making it a must-watch.

The Ultimate Christmas Guide with Josie Gibson

Stuck for gift ideas? Fear not! At 8 pm on Channel 4, Josie Gibson teams up with celebrity guests like Ollie Locke and Jenny Eclair to explore potential presents across different price ranges. She also suggests hacks to make the most of what you already have. This two-part series is a lifesaver during the Christmas season, helping you find the perfect gifts for your loved ones.

Josie's expertise and the insights from the guests make this guide a valuable resource. Whether you're on a tight budget or looking for something special, you'll find inspiration here. It's a great way to make this Christmas truly memorable.

University Challenge: Durham vs. Open University

At 8.30 pm on BBC Two, the countdown to the Christmas special begins. This week, the top student brains of Durham and the Open University go head to head in the second round of the ultimate university quiz. With hopes of reaching the quarter-finals, Amol Rajan fires the questions, testing their knowledge and skills.

The competition is fierce as these students showcase their intellectual prowess. It's a thrilling display of academic excellence and a must-watch for anyone interested in education and trivia. Who will come out on top?

Renaissance – The Blood and the Beauty

At 9 pm on BBC Two, we delve into the fascinating world of Renaissance art. Who is truly "Florence's favourite son"? Michelangelo, played by Charles Dance in his old age? His superstar rival Leonardo da Vinci? Or the young upstart Raphael? With contributions from contemporary artists like David LaChapelle and Alison Lapper, this episode explores Michelangelo's most prestigious commission, the figure of David.

The exploration of Renaissance art and the different perspectives on these great artists is truly captivating. It gives us a deeper understanding of the art and culture of that time period. It's a visual and intellectual feast.

24 Hours in Police Custody

In this episode of the police procedural documentary series on Channel 4 at 9 pm, a bizarre and tragic situation unfolds in Luton. A call leads the police to a flat where they find a man lying on top of an unconscious woman. With no local ties, the questions about who they are and how they got there have no obvious answers. This case is a reminder of the complex and often mysterious world of law enforcement.

The documentary takes us behind the scenes and shows us the challenges faced by the police. It's a gripping story that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

Dune: Prophecy

At 9 pm on Sky Atlantic, the political machinations of the gloomily grand sci-fi prequel continue. Valya (Emily Watson) has returned to the bosom of House Harkonnen ahead of a High Council meeting. Meanwhile, at the sisterhood's bunk-bed seminary for young space witches, Tula (Olivia Williams) must contend with a psychic attack. The story unfolds with mystery and intrigue.

The combination of political drama and sci-fi elements makes this show a unique and captivating experience. It keeps you hooked from start to finish.

Film choice: Rosaline

Karen Maine's affable comedy takes a teen angle on Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, but drops the tropes of the high-school comedy and transports us to medieval Verona. Kaitlyn Dever shines as the titular Rosaline Capulet, a smart and career-minded girl who is also in love with Kyle Allen's floppy-haired himbo Romeo Montague. But when her newly arrived cousin Juliet (Isabella Merced) turns his head, the story takes an interesting turn.

With dive bars, sports (jousting), stoners, and youthful angst, this film is relatable to fans of "Clueless". Kaitlyn Dever's performance is terrific, making her a star to watch. It's a fresh take on a classic story.

45 Hallmark Christmas Movies: Instant Holiday Cheer Awaits!
2024-12-09
Hallmark is known for its heartwarming holiday movies, and 2024 is no exception. With a diverse range of stories and charming characters, these films are sure to bring the holiday spirit to viewers. Let's take a look at some of the must-watch movies this year.

Discover the Magic of Hallmark's 2024 Holiday Movies

Holiday Mismatch (2024)

New retiree Barb (Beth Broderick) joins a holiday committee and clashes with longtime member Kath (Caroline Rhea). When their kids start dating, they try to break up the happy couple. If you love break-up missions gone wrong, this movie is for you.

It shows the humorous and heartwarming side of holiday conflicts and how two seemingly opposing characters can find common ground.

Sugarplummed (2024)

Emily (Maggie Lawson) wishes for a perfect Christmas like in the Sugarplum movies, and a Sugarplum (Janel Parrish) actually appears to make her wish come true. This movie is a bit meta and adds a unique twist to the holiday genre.

It explores the power of dreams and the unexpected ways they can be fulfilled during the holiday season.

The Christmas Quest (2024)

Mean Girls alum Lacey Chabert plays Stefanie, who teams up with her ex-husband Chase to find "the legendary treasure of the Tule Lads." They go all the way to Iceland on this treasure hunt.

This movie combines adventure and holiday spirit as the couple navigates through Iceland in search of the treasure.

Confessions of A Christmas Letter (2024)

Angela Kinsey stars in this festive flick as Settie Rose, who hires novelist Juan (Alec Santos) to help her win the community's Christmas letter competition. His challenge is to depict her dysfunctional family in the best way possible.

It delves into the complexities of family and the power of words during the holiday season.

Christmas With the Singhs (2024)

Virgin River's Benjamin Hollingsworth and Anuja Joshi star in this movie about a newly engaged couple whose relationship is tested when their families' cultural and holiday traditions clash.

It showcases the diversity of holiday traditions and how they can bring both joy and challenges.

Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story (2024)

Chiefs superfan Alana (Hunter King) tries to win the Fan of the Year Award as a Christmas gift for her family. Along the way, she falls in love with a guy who works in the Chiefs office. Travis Kelce's mom also has a role in the film.

This movie combines football and holiday love, adding a unique twist to the traditional holiday story.

Three Wiser Men and a Boy (2024)

The Brenner brothers are back in this follow-up to Three Wise Men and a Baby (2022). They're putting on a holiday pageant for little Thomas but face life's curveballs, including their mother's new boyfriend.

It shows the challenges and joys of family during the holiday season and how they come together to create a special memory.

Flipping for Christmas (2023)

Abigail (Ashley Newbrough) agrees to help her sister with a house flip, but co-beneficiary Bo (Marcus Rosner) has other ideas. This home-renovation-themed movie is a must-watch for fans of the genre.

It highlights the ups and downs of a home renovation project and the unexpected connections that can be made.

The Christmas House (2020)

A famous TV star reconnects with his high school sweetheart, a gay lead couple tries to adopt a child, and a struggling married couple works to keep their Christmas memories alive. This movie weaves multiple storylines into one festive tale.

It shows the diversity of holiday experiences and how love and family can overcome any obstacle.

A Gingerbread Romance (2018)

Architect Taylor (Tia Mowry-Hardrict) teams up with baker Adam (Duane Henry) to build a life-size gingerbread house for a contest. As they fall in love, Taylor learns that maybe it's not so bad to stick around.

This movie combines architecture, baking, and romance, creating a sweet holiday story.

Checkin' It Twice (2023)

Hockey player Scott (Kevin McGarry) falls in love with real estate agent Ashley (Kim Matula) after being traded to her hometown team. Her family adores the sport, adding an extra layer of charm to their story.

It shows the unexpected connections that can be made through sports and love during the holiday season.

A Merry Scottish Christmas (2023)

Estranged siblings Lindsay (Lacey Chabert) and Brad (Scott Wolf) come together in Scotland for Christmas. A family secret is revealed, adding a touch of mystery to the holiday celebration.

It explores the power of family and the healing that can happen during the holiday season.

Christmas by Design (2023)

Charlotte (Rebecca Dalton) is a fashion designer who accepts a Christmas challenge to design a holiday-themed collection. In the process, she discovers what matters most in life.

This movie shows the creative side of the holiday season and how it can inspire personal growth.

Let It Snow (2013)

Executive Stephanie (Candace Cameron Bure) is anti-Christmas but changes her mind when she meets Brady (Jesse Hutch) and discovers the magic of winter. From skiing to tobogganing, this movie is a winter wonderland.

It shows the transformation that can happen during the holiday season and the power of new experiences.

Christmas Everlasting (2018)

A successful lawyer returns to her childhood home after her sister passes away. The star-studded cast includes Tatyana Ali, Dondré T. Whitfield, Dennis Haysbert, and Patti LaBelle. This movie is a heartwarming tribute to the holiday season.

It shows the importance of family and the lasting impact of the holiday season.

Haul Out the Holly (2022)

(No specific content provided for this movie, so no detailed rewrite.)

Road to Christmas (2018)

Los Angeles television producer Maggie Baker falls for Danny Wise, the son and former producer of his mother's annual Christmas special. This movie is a romantic journey through the holiday season.

It shows the magic of love and the power of Christmas to bring people together.

Christmas in Evergreen (2017)

A small-town veterinarian wishes for a romantic Christmas but has to choose between her longtime boyfriend and a doctor she meets at the airport. This movie is a charming holiday romance.

It shows the uncertainties of love during the holiday season and how it can lead to unexpected endings.

Good Morning Christmas! (2020)

Two TV hosts who love to bicker off-screen are sent to a small town for Christmas. As they get to know each other, they discover that they may have been wrong about each other. This movie is a heartwarming tale of friendship and growth.

It shows the power of forgiveness and the importance of looking beyond first impressions.

Write Before Christmas (2019)

Jessica (Torrey DeVitto) sends Christmas cards to five people who have influenced her life. Each card sparks a change in their lives, making this a truly inspiring movie.

It shows the impact that a simple act of kindness can have during the holiday season.

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"Sojourners' 2024 Picks: Movies with Powerful Monologues"
2024-12-09
In the realm of 2024 cinema, one monologue stands out - a sermon that forms the heart of the mystery-thriller "Conclave". Cardinal Thomas Lawrence (portrayed by Ralph Fiennes) is tasked with leading the conclave of world cardinals to elect the next pope. As part of his duties, he delivers an opening homily to over 100 influential Catholic leaders, addressing various controversial topics such as women's ordination, interfaith relations, and LGBTQ+ rights. His colleagues advise him to play it safe, but instead, he decides to preach about the virtue of doubt. "There is one sin which I have come to fear above all others: certainty," he says. "Certainty is the great enemy of unity. Certainty is the deadly enemy of tolerance. Even Christ was not certain at the end. … Let us pray that God will grant us a pope who doubts, and let him grant us a pope who sins and asks for forgiveness and who carries on."

Characters Who Doubt and Seek Justice

A Real Pain

In this dark comedy, two American cousins with distinct personalities - a responsible and aloof Jesse Eisenberg and a charming yet reckless Kieran Culkin - reunite in Poland for a Holocaust remembrance tour. They hope this journey will help them honor their recently deceased grandmother and their Jewish heritage. Against the backdrop of gas chambers, tombstones, and hotel dining rooms, accompanied by a group of strangers, the cousins search for ways to process their personal and inherited grief.

God & Country

Culture columnist Abby Olcese describes "God & Country" as a crash-course in understanding how a hyper-conservative, white-dominant minority became a vocal voting bloc. Leaning on interviews with faith leaders like Rev. William J. Barber II and others, the documentary aims to interrogate common Christian nationalist arguments and show viewers how to thwart this movement's ascent.

Furiosa

In the prequel to "Mad Max: Fury Road", we learn how Furiosa became the woman who would liberate the enslaved "breeders/wives" of the tyrannical Immortan Joe. As pointed out by contributing editor JR. Forasteros, this action film is an Exodus story. Both Moses and Furiosa were born into slavery, experienced the comforts of empire, and then led oppressed peoples to a promised land. Their stories prompt viewers to consider how those in the lap of the empire can act as agents of liberation.

Heretic

Zachary Lee writes that the "biggest scare" of this religious horror film isn't demonic or paranormal but the unique terror of a theological conversation with a self-righteous man. Mr. Reed invites two missionaries into his house, feigning curiosity about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In reality, he wants to test their faith by bringing the young women closer to death. Heretic is both scary and theologically stirring, reminding viewers that perhaps the true heretics are not those who doubt but those who are certain.

Leap of Faith

A couple of years ago, 12 pastors from different political and theological backgrounds agreed to meet over a year. They aimed to find a way to love each other despite their differences and allowed Nicholas Ma and Morgan Neville to film the process. The resulting documentary, as written by Jim McDermott, is a hopeful and raw portrayal that doesn't shy away from silence or vulnerability, offering a revelatory look at what it's like to be a pastor today.

Dune: Part Two

In this spectacle of speculative fiction, religion and politics are intricately intertwined. Political elites have spent centuries preparing for a messiah-figure to emerge and start a holy war. Paul Atreides initially dismisses the false prophecy, but as the film progresses, his integrity weakens as his enemies grow stronger. As Ezra Craker writes, "being the messiah comes in handy in moments of political and military desperation. That kind of influence is hard to resist."

Exhibiting Forgiveness

"Exhibiting Forgiveness" focuses on the reunion of Tarrell (André Holland) with his estranged father, La’Ron (John Earl Jelks), who was abusive during Tarrell's childhood. Now recovering from addiction, La’Ron seeks reconciliation and forgiveness. Director Titus Kaphar searches for a way to forgive without forgetting in this autobiographical feature-film debut. "Forgiving doesn't mean - shouldn't have to mean - that you are putting yourself back in a dangerous situation," he said. "You can forgive and go a different path."

Between the Temples

Ben Gottlieb is a newly widowed middle-aged cantor who has lost his voice and his purpose in life. Carla Kessler O’Connor is a free-spirited septuagenarian who wants to take Ben's bat mitzvah class at the synagogue (her non-Jewish parents never allowed her to have the ceremony as a child). The premise of this film makes it seem like a quirky age-gap romance, and it is in some ways. But it is also a warm, surprising, and hilarious portrait of how two misfits skirted religious convention to find spiritual belonging with each other.

Conclave

"Conclave" offers a thrilling and humanizing look at the papal election process, a secretive event that few get to witness. The film uses color, silence, and a powerful monologue by Sister Agnes (portrayed by Isabella Rossellini) to critique the patriarchal power structures of the Vatican. As Sarah Vincent writes in her review, "in the beginning, the critique only simmers in the visual imagery, the background to the political maneuvering. But by the end of the movie, it has taken center stage."Want more ideas about what to watch? Check out these other film roundups:+Sojourners’ Top Movies and TV Shows of 2023+Sojourners’ 2022 Film and TV Roundup to Inspire Faith and Justice+Sojourners’ 2021 Film and TV Roundup
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