As they say, series are the new movies. When you have 90 hours instead of 90 minutes to develop a plot, it’s no wonder all the big name actors and directors are switching to the small screen. And with all-new ways of watching, everybody is discovering their favourites.
So welcome to our section called My Series. This is where we ask some of our favourite people what they’re watching, what they hate, what they love, and how badly they binge-watch.
Funnyman Alan Committie is currently directing The Play That Goes Wrong at the Theatre on the Bay. An award-winning comedian with a flair for fast repartee and a very keen appreciation of comic timing, Alan also co-hosts the SABC2 show Red Cake.
WS: What series are you watching at the moment?
AC: I’ve just finished Veep Season 5 (Pictured left) and am still watching The Crown, Designated Survivor, Homeland, Fargo and The Trip to Spain.
WS: How advanced into the series are you?
AC: I’ve got past Episode 3 which means that I will finish the series. If, after Episode 2, I am having doubts then I am afraid you get relegated to a “watch later” list that I NEVER get to….
WS: What do you think of it so far?
AC: I would recommend all of the above series: Veep and The Trip to Spain (pictured below) for their outstanding comic scripts and performances, and the others for tense, intriguing television.
The Trip to Spain is the third in the series starring Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon (two of my favourite comic performers). Directed by Michael Winterbottom and combining hilarious scripted improvisation with gorgeous European scenery – what’s not to love?
WS: Do you have any favourite characters?
AC: I am a little in love with Julia Louise Dreyfuss as the Vice President in Veep!
WC: Are you a binge-watcher?
AC: My name is Alan Committie and I do binge watch. It’s been five hours since my last binge …
WS: How bad has it got?
AC: I watched Season 2 of House of Cards (pictured left) as it was released at midnight on Netflix (I was in America at the time) and watched all 13 episodes back to back through the following day. I started in bed, went to a couch and then ended up back in bed. There might have been an episode in the kitchen at some point …
WS: What are your best treats whilst bingeing?
AC: Since this is intrinsically unhealthy activity you might as well double up with some bad foods. A good large packet of crisps (Flings), some chocolate and a Coke Zero (so you can trick your mind into feeling healthy). Plus lots of water. Don’t be stupid. Stay hydrated.
WS: How do you get your series?
AC: I may or may not have a series dealer – inbox me for details.
WS: What do you think has been the most excellent series ever made?
AC: I have no hesitation in saying The West Wing (pictured right). It’s the best written, directed, acted series of all time plus there’s a killer theme tune. Anybody who disagrees probably deserves to watch SABC 3 repeats on a Thursday morning ad nauseum …
WS: Have you ever cancelled a real, live social engagement to stay at home and watch a series?
AC: This is a trick question to get me into the “I can’t believe you weren’t at your wedding” argument again. NO COMMENT.
What: The Play That Goes Wrong
Where and when: Theatre on the Bay, 3 May – 17 June
Book: Computicket or 021 438 3100
WS
