Alias (S1), White Collar (S4), Arrow (S1), Revenge (S2).

Recently I have taken some time off work to go on Holidays. That put a bit of a spanner in the film and tv show viewing, but, I have managed to watch some stuff. One show in particular I took away with me, and managed to finish a season of whilst away - Alias (Season 1). This is a show I had meant to watch for years. In fact, I did start it a few years ago, but it just fell by the way side. So, I got hold of it again, and made a good go of it whilst on holidays. Man, I was not disappointed. The first season was quite thrilling. The main character of Sydney Bristow, played by Jennifer Garner, is a very likeable everyday person, that happens to lead the most ridiculous double life ever. The show is completely off the wall, but is extremely well produced, with plot lines that are complex yet involving. If you're into the spy genre, then I thoroughly recommend picking this show up. Based on the first season, I don't think you'll be disappointed.

Once I got back from holidays, I fell extremely ill for a few days. Man, I  was knocked for six with an upper respiratory tract infection. Fought fever for 5 days, but did manage a couple sessions of tv show catch up. First, the missus and I finished White Collar Season 4. What a great show. The lead character played by Matt Bomer is as charismatic as they come. He really makes the show. I've tried to avoid the shows that have self contained episodes, but this is one of a select few that I really enjoy. The others I watch that are similar are The Mentalist and Person of Interest (off the top of my head). Otherwise, I really only try to invest time in shows that have one storyline for the season.

Now that most current shows are wrapping their seasons up, I am on a finish-up run. Just finished Arrow Season 1, which was great. I really enjoy the superhero genre, and this is very much like a tv show of Batman. You know, the billionaire playboy that is also a caped crusader - minus the cape in this show.

Just finished Revenge Season 2 last night. Although the second season has probably not been as interesting as Season 1, it is still a guilty pleasure of a show. There was a major reveal at the end of the season for one of the characters, one that I was hoping would happen.I won't go into here, but if you've been following the show, then the final seconds will hopefully give you that sigh of relief - because it was starting to get ridiculous.

The Following - Season One Review (No Spoilers)

I'd heard a lot about this show before starting it. I tried to hold off and finish some other shows first, but a girl at work kept going on about it, so I just had to start it. The first few episodes were really good - had that addictive quality to it. It probably dipped a little in the middle few episodes, but not much. Overall, the show is violent, bloody and really gets you on the edge of seat. It is a very effective thriller. I found it to be well written, with Kevin Bacon being fantastic in the lead role. For a guy in his mid 50's, he looks damn fit. The supporting cast are excellent as well, and the villain, played by James Purefoy, is pure evil. He's charming as hell, but twisted as fuck.

The first season is 15 episodes (each having 42min run time), so it can be quick to get through. It follows a single story throughout the season, unlike other thriller/crime solving shows like Criminal Minds (I've seen the occasional episode of that show) which follow a different case each week. There is a nice buildup to the season finale. Plenty happens along the way, and you can find it unpredictable at times - which is what you want right? 

If you're after something that is dark, bloody and involves serial killers, with a potential to haunt you in your sleep, then give this show a go. If you don't like the first episode or two, then it's probably not your cup of tea. The first season finale was a cracker, and I will definitely be back for more.