“You don’t need a weatherman to know which way the wind blows,” but these days, a guide through the seemingly endless flurry of pop culture offerings is just what we need. With that in mind, here is what’s on the radar screen in TV, music and film for the
Big Events:
Boy Band (June 22, ABC); The Gong Show (June 21, ABC/City); GLOW (Netflix, June 23)
Big Picture:
Boy Band is a new reality competition trying to find the next One Direction. (Really, we couldn’t have let the last gasp of the current boy-band era just die a merciful death?) Meanwhile, The Gong Show revitalizes the classic ’70s talent show, and will be hosted by an “in-character” Mike Myers (hopefully as Wayne Campbell). Rotating celebrity judges include comedic heavyweights like Zach Galifianakis, Dana Carvey, Jack Black, Andy Samberg, and Alison Brie.
Speaking of the latter, Brie launches her own dramedy on Netflix; GLOW stands for the Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling. Based on a true story, it brings to life the ‘80s wrestling league that transformed struggling actresses into costumed brawlers. Brie was overshadowed in her small-but-poignant Mad Men role, and shined like a comedic gem on Community. She deserves to be in the centre of the TV ring. Expect a healthy mix of storytelling, spandex and serendipity.
Forecast:
Get in the ring with GLOW, which could be a beacon of creative light in a summer of endless reality and game shows. As for the latter, I would have preferred a series called Boy Band: The Gong Show, or a movie called Transformers: Boy Band, in which the Autobots and Decepticons go undercover in the music business (something I’ve long feared).
Honourable Mention:
Little Big Shots: Forever Young (June 21, City/NBC). If you’re into 70 to 90-year-old magicians, acrobats, and magicians, then this one is for you.