Grade A, Choice Picks: Top Christmas Episodes

Posted in Choice Picks, TV by Ellen Lloyd

Today, I give you my list of Christmas episodes. This list is almost impossible to whittle down to just 10, so I made this a list of 15. Also, I tried to keep the list to just one episode per show. Some of these, I haven’t watched in a long time and some are brand new additions to the Holiday Episode list. Keep in mind that I don’t watch every show and I am very biased in my selection of the “best holiday episodes ever”, but I think you can enjoy my list regardless.

15. “The 23rd” New Girl: Season 1 – Nick really fouls things up when he tells Jess’ current boyfriend that she is not in love with him. The real Christmas magic is when Nick wakes up the most decorated neighborhood in town, Candy Cane Lane, to turn on all of their lights to cheer her up. Is it any wonder why these two are together now?

14. “Symphony of Illumination” How I Met Your Mother: Season 7 – Definitely the biggest bummer episode on the list, but that is what makes this episode so great. Robin takes the narrating reins and tells the story of when she thought she was pregnant to what turn out to be her imaginary children. You see, Robin finds out that she cannot have children. The true Christmas spirit comes when Ted cheers her up without knowing why she needs cheering up by setting up an elaborate Christmas light routine.

13. “Christmas Party Sex Trap” The Mindy Project: Season 2 – Yes, this just aired, but hello! Did you see Chris Messina dance to Aaliyah? Yeah. And if that weren’t enough, Mindy and Danny almost kiss!

12. “Santa in the Slush” Bones: Season 3 – Ah, the good old days when the only person getting into the Bones-Booth mix was Caroline bribing them into kissing under the mistletoe. I love Caroline. While the whole first-kiss aspect really helps, this is also just a pretty good Christmas episode. You have the gore and mystery with a dead Santa in a sewer, you have the funny with Booth having to sniff Santas, you have the whimsy with Santa’s apartment above a toy store, and you have the touching with Booth giving Brennan her Christmas tree. Le sigh.

11. “Christmas Special” 30 Rock: Season 3 – In my book, it doesn’t get much better than Liz Lemon ruining Christmas for some kids and Jack finding out that his mom took F.A.O. Schwartz as her gentlemen lover (“Uhh that word bums me out unless it’s between the words meat and pizza”) to make Christmas for him as a kid.

10. “Citizen Knope” Parks and Recreation: Season 4 – It shouldn’t be surprising that the merriest show on television is good at doing a Christmas episode. Sure enough, in true Parks and Recreation style, this episode is hilarious and sweet. Leslie is in the midst of her suspension after it is revealed that she and Ben are dating. Leslie is obviously the best at gift giving, but the parks department wants to make up some of the difference. When her campaign team bails after low approval numbers, they give her the best gift of all!

9. “Afternoon Delight” Arrested Development: Season 2 – Ah, Christmas. The time of year when you have parties on Bethlehem time, sing about daytime lovin’ with your niece, and let kids get their grubby little hands all over a $3000 dollar suit. Come on!

8. “The Polarizing Express” Psych: Season 5 – It is exactly what you would want out of an It’s a Wonderful Life episode from Psych written and directed by James Roday: bizarre, hilarious, and Gus in a UPN sitcom in the 90s. This episode only further solidifies my love for Roday.

7. “Abed’s Uncontrollable Christmas” Community: Season 2 – This stop-motion, musical spectacular holiday special send-up had to be on the list. Um, Abed finding out that the meaning of Christmas is the first season of Lost on DVD because Christmas can mean whatever we want it to mean? Brilliant, uproarious, and kind of sweet. Also, this episode gave me my new favorite Christmas mascot. Christmas Pterodactyl!

6. “Christmas Party” The Office: Season 2 – This one made me all sorts of nostalgic for the (now fulfilled) sexual tension of Jim and Pam. It also had some other great stuff, too. Michael’s impromptu Yankee Swap to get rid of the homemade oven mitt, Creed’s equally impromptu Secret Santa gift, Angela’s babies-playing-saxes poster, and Meredith flashing Michael. “Happy birthday, Jesus. Sorry your party’s so lame.”

5. “A Very Supernatural Christmas” Supernatural: Season 3 – This episode is exactly what you would expect from a Supernatural Christmas episode: it’s creepy, it’s kooky, and it has that punch of heart right at the end between the demon hunting bros.

4. “No-Ho-Ho” Happy Endings: Season 3 – All I want for Christmas is this show to come back. Is that so much to ask? The episode centers around the gang trying to give Jane the best birthday ever when they find out that her birthday is actually on Christmas, but they have a hard time keeping Christmas out. Between Brad’s penchant for dancing with hip-hop Santa, Max’s Egg Nog addiction, and Alex’s weird present opening fetish, there is no way they can succeed. “Happy Birthday, Jane. And Jesus.”

3. “Bath Item Gift Hypothesis” The Big Bang Theory: Season 2 – Sheldon really struggles with what to reciprocate Penny’s Christmas gift with so he buys up every gift basket in Bath and Body Works with plans to pick the present that best fits her gift to him in terms of price. And while I enjoy this whole episode, I adore the last five minutes. When Sheldon receives Penny’s … you know what, just go watch this.

2. “A Christmas Carol” Doctor Who: Eleventh Doctor – It should be noted that I somehow forgot to include at lease ONE Doctor Who special on yesterday’s list. I’m so ashamed that I am cheating and including this special on the episode list. Hey, it’s my list, I can do what I want. It has gotten to they point now where my Christmases are not complete without my Doctor Who specials and this one is my favorite. A twist on the Dickens classic may be a bit over done, but the Whovian element makes this just right.

1. “Santa Claus Conquers the Martians” Mystery Science Theater 3000: Season 3 – In answer to your question, yes, this movie is as ridiculous as it sounds. In fact, probably more so. But that is what makes Joel and the bots making fun of it so great. Then you couple their commentary with their performance of “A Patrick Swayze Christmas”, a seminal Christmas carol classic, and you get pure holiday magic.
Phew! That’s a lot of linking for your viewing pleasure, there you have it! Do you have any shows you like with great Christmas episodes that I should check out? Do you disagree with my order? Not that I am going to change my mind, but I would love to at least pretend to listen to your feedback. Check out my favorite Christmas specials and stay tuned for my favorite holiday movies and holiday records!

– Ellen

18Jun2013

Fangirly Exposed: Ellen’s Sexual Tension Workout Regime

Posted in Books, Fangirly Exposed!, TV by Ellen Lloyd

“I’ve seen actual results with Ellen’s Sexual Tension Workout” – Happy Lady on Bike

I am a glutton for sexual tension. That being said, I have decided to put that deadly sin of mine to good use.

In our family, we do this kind of weird thing, Whitney and I in particular. When there is something good happening, we tense up and rub our hands together in excitement. We have discussed why we do this and can only surmise that it is our way of releasing pent-up energy. Seeing as how the thing that we get most excited about is movies and TV, we do it a LOT when we are watching something. And seeing as we are hard-core shippers, we do it a LOT when there is any modicum of sexual tension on screen.

Continue reading →

16Jun2013

A Birthday Tribute to Whitney

Posted in TV by Ellen Lloyd

In years past, I have compiled lists of all of my birthday wishes for Whitney on this, the day after her birth (because I am a procrastinator). My wishes started out somewhat realistic, such as Bones and Booth getting it on and having a baby (NAILED IT! (that’s what he said)), but my wishes have become more unrealistic, such as last year’s wish that I would meet an adorable geek at Comic Con who would build a teleportation device that would allow Whitney and I to be able to watch TV together every night. Because that kind of technology should be used for something important.

What is one to do when their highly unrealistic goals are unattained? Wish for something even more ridiculously far-fetched, of course! Putting it out into the ether is all that matters. The more outlandish the wish, the more likely you are to get some semblance of it, right?

With that, I give you, but more importantly, Whitney, my list of wishes for her on her (day after her) birthday:

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16May2013

Must-Have TV Merch: Nick Miller Panic Moonwalk Shirt!!!

Posted in TV by Whitney Weldon

If you’re anything like me, then you encounter awkward situations anywhere between 15 to 1,000,000 times a day (what can I say, I’m an UNCOMFORTABLE person to be around). In fact, if I were a super hero, my name would be The Odd Broad, and instead of a dope cape or figure-flattering mask, I would wear this Nick Miller panic moonwalk shirt from Redbubble.com. For those of us who need to brush up on our panic moonwalking, I’ve provided the following clip. Also, it should be noted that what Nick does isn’t so much actual moonwalking as it is just walking backwards. Not to split hairs.

-Whitney

15May2013

Mixin’ It Up: May’s Playlist

Posted in Mixin' it Up, Music by Ellen Lloyd

“I Remember You” Rilo Kiley – I really should just list the whole RKives album here, but that’s not how this list works. That being said, you should also check out “Emotional“, “Patiently“, “Let Me Back In” and “I’ll Get You There” My only complaint against the album is that it is not a reunion album and just a compilation of unreleased tracks. Come back to us, Rilo Kiley! This song just happens to be the track I have been rocking the hardest. What can I say? I’m a sucker for bouncy, happy songs.

“S.O.S. in Bel Air” Phoenix – I have been rocking this album pretty hard lately, as well. There is something about Phoenix’s music that just make me want to dance! You know? Really let loose and dance like no one is watching. This happens to be the track that I enjoy doing that to the most.

“Diane Young” Vampire Weekend – It must be the oncoming summer season that is really drawing me to all these peppy songs. If you saw Vampire Weekend on SNL last week, you probably already downloaded this song, but in case you didn’t, I suggest you get this one and begin blasting it in your with the windows rolled down. I know I have been.

“That Girl” Justin Timberlake – I know there are some haters out there for my boy JT’s latest album, and while it is not as good as FutureSex/LoveSounds, I enjoy the throwback quality of 20/20, perfectly exhibited with “That Girl” and my other fav from the album “Pusher Love Girl“. Don’t hate. Just get down and dirty. It’s what JT would want.

“I Always Knew” The Vaccines – If you saw the New Girl finale, you should not have to ask why this song is on the list. Nothing like a good Nick Miller snog to endear a song to me. How perfect is the line “Let’s go to bed, before you say something real” for Nick and Jess? Also, the song is just plain catchy and cute.

“Blurred Lines” Robin Thicke feat. T.I and Pharrell – This month’s playlist was missing a good solid pop/dance track. Then this song came out. Have you heard this song? I am incapable of not dancing to this song. Please tell me that I’m not the only one.

“Romeo and Juliet” The Killers – This song is obviously old news because the original is 30 years old and this cover has been around for a few years, but it doesn’t hurt to remind ourselves of how perfect this song is. Really listen to this song and tell me that it isn’t one of those perfect songs where every aspect just comes together to create music magic. That is your homework for this post.

“Sunday Girl” She & Him – Admittedly, I have been a little disappointed with Volume 3. I don’t think anything will ever live up to Volume 1, but this cover of Blondie’s “Sunday Girl” is pretty darn infectious and a definite highlight on this latest album. “London” and “Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me” are my other highlights if you were interested.

“Doin’ it Right” Daft Punk – I feel pretty cliche listing a Daft Punk song from their new album, Random Access Memories because the internet seems to be pretty obsessed with it right now, but this song is LEGIT. Check it out. Definitely my favorite from the album so far.

“Back to Black” Beyonce and Andre 3000 – I have yet to see The Great Gatsby and I know there are mixed reviews on how the music works within the context of the movie, but regardless of that, the soundtrack for this movie is a pretty dang awesome compilation of music. This is just one of many highlights on the album. (Did not mean to have so many covers on the list).

– Ellen

10Apr2013

Fangirly Makeover: How to get the Zooey Deschanel Look!

Posted in Fangirly makeover by Whitney Weldon

We love everything about Fox’s New Girl. Nick is a turtle-faced fox, Winston is the best friend we never knew we needed, Schmidt is a walking tutorial on how not to behave, and Jess is the style guru we fangirls have been waiting for. This week, not only are we going to show you how to get Jess’ look, we’re going to show you how to make it your own.

Eyewear: When trying to look like America’s Queen of Quirk, accessorizing is key. And, as every good New Girl fan knows, Jess’ fav accessory is a super cute pair of glasses. So to all my myopic sisters out there, ditch the contacts and sport those specs! To really make it your own, why not go for a cool monocle? It’s the perfect blend of sass and class.

Dresses: If you’re anything like me, you covet every dress that Deschanel has ever worn. But how does a fangirl on a budget get her paws on cute frocks without having to sell an organ or competing on a reality TV show? I’ll tell ya how: Modcloth! They’ve got a pretty great selection of cute dresses that are guarenteed to help you access your inner quirky girl!

Leg wear: It’s simple folks. Wear tights with everything. There is no situation too formal for tights. Got a big meeting coming up? Slap on some tights under your favorite pantsuit and then- this is important- DITCH THE PANTS. It’s a classic example of business on top, party on the bottom. Your coworkers will admire your moxy and your sexy gams.

Attitude: A key element to Jess’ look is plenty of confidence. So go on, sister-friend. Put on your new outfit (complete with brand new monocle) and work it. If you follow our advice, I promise that all the Nick Millers in your life will be beating down your door. And it will probably look a lot like this…

-Whitney

30Jan2013

Fangirly Poll: Was that New Girl [SPOILER] Everything You Hoped it Would Be?

Posted in TV by Ellen Lloyd

Wow-ee-wow. Am I right? Now is the time to look away if you don’t want to be spoiled. [SERIOUSLY. Look away and stop reading because I am about to start scream-typing.]

IT HAPPENED! That was pretty epic and I don’t want to judge prematurely but this had to be up there on the list of best kisses on TV. Yep, that’s right, folks, Nick and Jess kissed and it was awesome. Actually, when I thought they were going to kiss during the game of True American, it was going to be awesome, but then it was awesome-er.

The two complaints I have heard so far are that it is happening too soon and that Nick ate Jess’ face. But I was into it. Nick Miller can eat my face any day.

What did you think? Let us know in the poll and comments below.

–Ellen

11Jan2013

Fangirly Crush of the Week: David Walton

Posted in Crush of the Week, TV by Ellen Lloyd

Listen folks, nobody wants to see Nick and Jess fall in love already more than me. I have to admit, though, I’m not hating having Sam, Jess’ latest love interest played by David Walton, around.

He’s the triple threat: cute, funny, and a doctor. Am I right, ladies? Add on to those that he is also a reformed commitment-phobe that came back to Jess because he just liked her THAT much? There go my ovaries. (TMI? Meh.)

He’s a babe. If he were a president, he would be Baberham Lincoln. Scha-wing.

– Ellen

6Nov2012

Fangirly Investigates: Best Day of Television

Posted in Fangirly Investigates by Ellen Lloyd

We’ve had TGIF, Must See Thursday, and One Saturday Morning, but is the current best night of television. After exhaustive hours spent doing research for this study, I feel safe in declaring Tuesday the best night of television.

First, let’s look at the close runner-up and former champ: Thursday. It is still fighting a good fight, but where I used to not have enough DVR capabilities to get in everything I wanted and I couldn’t wait to get home and watch it all, I’m feeling a bit more ambivalent. I enjoy watching 30 Rock and The Vampire Diaries and I still rush home for Parks and Recreation, but this is not the “Must See” night that it used to be.

Dethroning the once great Thursday is the quick and scrappy Tuesday. It’s appeal may come from the fact that all of the shows I am loving are still fresh and only in their first or second season (with the exception of Happy Endings in its third). Let’s look at my personal lineup: Raising Hope, Hart of Dixie, Ben and Kate, New Girl, Happy Endings, Emily Owens, M.D., and The Mindy Project. All of these have something to get excited about and are showing great promise.

So what night of TV is getting you most excited? Are you Team Tuesday?

-Ellen

2Nov2012

Fangirly Crush of the Week: Jake Johnson

Posted in Crush of the Week by Ellen Lloyd

I don’t know what has changed, but in the first season of of New Girl, I could not have cared less about Jake Johnson or his alter ego, Nick Miller. Don’t get me wrong, I wanted Nick and Jess to fall in love, but I myself could have taken him or left him.

Then this season comes along and everything has changed. I don’t know if it is a change in my libido or something that the show has done to change his character, but I can’t get enough of him! Anything that comes out of his mouth lately has me rolling. His delivery is priceless. Take for example his line reading of the word “spectacular” while watching a documentary on turtles. Slayed me.

Am I alone? Has something changed?

4Sep2012

Get with the Program: Watch Happy Endings!

Posted in Get with the Program, TV by Ellen Lloyd

Airs: Tuesdays at 9/8c starting October 23rd on ABC

TV show equation: Happy Endings = New Girl flavor+ premise of Friends x rapid fire references of Psych + Arrested Development‘s self-referential humor – Emmy Awards (don’t ask me why, though)

I can’t judge anyone who isn’t watching Happy Endings too harshly because I, myself, just started watching it this past summer. Did I watch both seasons at an alarming rate? Yes. Why? Because this show is hilarious.

If you are anything like me, I know what you’re thinking. “Oh, great. Another show about six friends living together in the city. Real original.” The reality that we have to face as TV consumers is that this formula gets used all the time because it works. Case in point: Happy Endings.

This is another example of a show where the initial plot begins to matter less and less, but here it is anyway: When Alex (Elisha Cuthbert) left Dave (Zachary Knighton) at the altar to run off with a man in roller blades (of all things), their group of friends were worried that nothing would be the same. Luckily for these crazies, they are all just loco enough to make it work. This original premise becomes less important mainly due to stand-out performances from the other four friends in the group. Brad (Damon Wayans Jr.) and Jane (Eliza Coupe) are nuts enough to be entertaining, while still remaining believable as a couple. Adam Pally is fantastic as Max, their gay friend who is different than any other gay character portrayed on TV. The approach to his character is both refreshing and makes for better comedy, in my opinion. Then there is Penny (Casey Wilson). The show itself makes reference to how she is the stereotypical rom-com heroine, always trying make things happen for herself, but perpetually winding up in kooky hijinks.

When I recently tried to recommend Happy Endings to a friend, she said she had already written it off because it seemed too “sitcom-y”. While they do find themselves in sitcom situations, the difference is that this brood often makes reference to the fact that they are sitcom characters. Take for example the following situation, when Penny is explaining that her boyfriend broke up with her for saying her catchphrase, “a-mah-zing” too many times.

“He said he hates when I say a-mah-zing, but I’ve barely said that at all this season… it’s more of a summer word” — Penny

It was great because I, as a viewer, had noticed that she hadn’t said her signature “a-mah-zing” in quite a while. It’s instances like this that open up this sort of communication with the fans and makes the show that much more enjoyable to watch. It reminds me of a more accessible-to-the-masses version of Arrested Development‘s self-referential humor (perhaps because AD directors Anthony and Joe Russo serve as executive producers).

Whatever there formula is, it’s working for me and I think it would work for you, too, if you gave it a shot.

I leave you with one of my favorite bits where Max is teaching Penny how to be a hipster: