Chris B

Edith Collins was my only disappointment from 1840. I was looking forward to seeing the actress return as a familiar character I enjoyed, but it was a nightmare. I didn't believe she was truly Edith Collins and the writing was terrible for her. I do wish with these time jumps that they used more of the original characters in bigger parts. Right now I'm on my third episode of the 1991 series and I'm enjoying it now. My only problem are the nighttime scenes. Julia did an experiment with Barnabas' blood in the daylight. The vile of blood exploded. The next scene saw Barnabas and Victoria, at night, walking in the woods. Had they not made such a big deal about Barnabas not being in the sunlight I would've never known it was night. The night scenes are brighter than the daylight scenes! Is this really a primetime series? I'm not sure what happened because I've never seen something like this. Oddly enough, the original wins when it comes to set design and overall production values. Just to think of how successful they were with so little money amazes me. I hope that at some point the brilliant Jean Simmons is allowed to act. Barbara Steele works as Julia for me because she's strange just like Grayson Hall. And Barbara Blackburn continues to impress. I do wish she joined Ryan's Hope a little sooner because I hear she was great as Siobhan and I believe it.

1840 was just brilliant and a nice way to end the series. I didn't like that Leticia was such a copycat of Pansy. What was their relation btw? Overall I enjoyed it although the parallel time story dragged on. I'm glad the final storylines were good, but it made me sad that we didn't get to see Barnabas, Julia and co one last time. The costumes in this era were also fantastic. Right now I began watching the 91 series. So far I've seen the pilot and was kinda disappointed. The early 90s were very scaled back from the over the top glamour of the 80s. It seemed to be important that everything be real and gritty. I don't think that worked for Dark Shadows. The actual mansions don't work for me. They seem more like something out of a horror film rather than something that generations of families would want to love in. There is no gothic/romantic element, it just feels condemned. Then Barnabas is so dark that I'm not sure why you would root for him at all. I don't know if he tries to kill David like in the original, but I can't see this Barnabas pulling something off like that. He's already so dark that seeing him threaten a child might be too much. Willie Loomis looks a mess, but I actually enjoyed him a bit. I like Carolyn and Victoria seems dull but she'll do. The actress playing Maggie is great and I actually found Rebecca Staab the most appealing actress which shocked me. Also love Joseph Gordon Levitt as David. I'm looking forward to seeing them go into the past. I hope the bad 90s trends don't follow them there.

I stopped watching in April and I was thinking of starting back with Hollyoaks Later and episodes from there. I found the show to be really dull when I left. I worry about this new HW and how good she is. The only thing I've heard people raving about is Sarah's death and Kirkland wrote that! Right now is the show any good? Would it be worth it for me to come back full time? I'm thinking if Hollyoaks isn't up to it maybe I'll pick up another soap like Eastenders or Coronation Street. Right now I feel like I need British soap in my life. Moreso just a good soap. Of the four, sometimes five US soaps I watch I only love one and I enjoy one other. With a good British soap I can at least go 3/3.

This is a show I enjoy, but I was hesitant about watching it due to the token minority characters. This is the type of modern show that loves to tout diversity, but it's so transparent. You have the white lead characters like Quinn, Rachel, Finn, Puck and the adults and the minorities are all on the sidelines supporting them. The minority characters will be given "very special" episode treatment, like Kurt with his two episode coming out. The mainstream teens will have the storylines at the forefront for the entire season. The real romances and issues that are developed. For that reason I can't say I love this show. It's very good and bringing something different to TV, but it has it's big shortcomings just like all of current TV.

I hope the news that the company that bought The Doctors is negotiating with two networks works out. I'd prefer they start releasing it on DVD or stream it online honestly. I think that would be easier to get off the ground. It's amazing to think that such a long forgotten soap could possibly return and we lucked out because it actually looks very good. I've seen one episode from 1981 and it was very good and that was the end! I was also impressed with how different Kim Zimmer was. It showed that she is possible of playing other types of characters.

Red One -- Sugababes! I'm listening to About a Girl, the fierce new Sugababes single produced by RedOne, best known for Pokerface and Just Dance by Lady Gaga. <object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value=" name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src=" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>

This was the first Peyton Place offering I saw, after the movies. It was years ago so I don't have deep memories of it. I do recall laughing at Stella Stevens as what I now know as a miscast Stella Chernak. I also recall them showing flashbacks with Lee Grant despite the recast. I believe Norman and Betty were recast as well. I'm sure if I rewatched this I'd feel even worse about it. This one interests me and I hope to see it soon. You can tell it was a pilot because they changed things around for the sake of the new series. Instead of a son, Connie and Mike son Matthew was now a daughter Kelly. I also don't think they honored the two kids Rita and Norman had (second one being the Return to Peyton Place baby) or Betty's daughter Peyton. I don't expect them to continue from the daytime series, but they should've remained true to the original show at least. The only change I liked was Steven being Hannah and Martin's illegitimate child. That's the way it should've been originally. Shame this didn't get picked up. I'd love to have seen Betty again all grown up. Because Adam West was Batman, I can't really guess what role he'd have played. I know, I'm just as bad as those producers who typecast actors. Still, this would make a nice bonus feature on a DVD, if the show was ever successful enough to merit them seeking this out.

Oh wow! That actually sounds great! On Peyton Place, it bothered me how they'd often introduce an outsider and center the show around their story with the main inhabitants playing a supporting role to them. Reading that, it seems like neglected characters like Connie, Elliot and Mike actually get real stories themselves. It's also nice to know that Hannah Cord and Martin Peyton were still around making hell for people! It's sad reading that and now knowing this show was good and knowing I'll probably never see it. I'm curious about every aspect of it. How the sets looked, how the new actors were in the roles, how the writing and tone matches up to the original series. Hopefully one day! I'd take seeing even one episode. ETA: I was just reading on another forum that apparently there was also an hour long pilot made in 1979 for Peyton Place. It had a new cast and I guess was a total reboot on the series. It starred Elaine Princi as Betty, Adam West (not sure who he'd be) and according to the IMDB listing, Mark Pinter. In 1979 soaps were still dead in primetime so I can see why it didn't sell. Had they just waited a couple of years it would've definitely made the air. Now here is another part of the Peyton Place universe I'd love to see.

I'd love to hear about Return to Peyton Place! I haven't heard many story details from that show.

I LOVED SFT when AOL was streaming the show. As much as I enjoyed Ryan's Hope, the show really suffered when Paul Avila Mayer took over. The previous headwriters did a great job and fit the mood of the show better than he did. I especially hated Jo's granddaughter getting killed off before her mother even returned! Patti was a major character for so long and that was just stupid. Why would you kill one of JO's main connections? It was dumb. They also did a poor job introducing that legacy character. I also have a week from 1966 which was fantastic. I love everything I've seen of this show and wish we could've seen more from AOL. They should've started in the late 70s or whenever their episodes started. Why they started so close to the end is beyond me. My favorite character was Liza and I enjoyed Wendy, Justine, Suzi and of course Stu and Jo. The McCleary's were pretty dull overall.

So Hot (South Crunk Mix) by the Wonder Girls So cute!

This 1897 story was great for a long time, but they're clearly stretching it beyond believability. I no longer care and just want it to end! It seems to just go on and on and everyone is dying and I just can't figure out why we're still here and haven't moved on yet. I can't wait to see how they tie it up and if it is worth the wait.

Okay I watched the entire Werewolf/Quentin's Ghost story and it was my favorite so far. MUCH stronger and more concentrated than the Adam/Eve story which drove me nuts. 1795 was a close favorite, but it was boggled down by too much Angelique who IMO outlived her welcome. You can tell they had a clear idea from beginning to end and stuck with it. The characters they choose to showcase were consistent and made sense. I liked seeing the kids take centerstage with major characters like Barnabas and Julia playing supporting roles. David has always been a favorite of mine and he sealed it with this story. That young actor has developed into something very good. I can't imagine a soap (even on like DS) centered a story around such young kids and it being as interesting. The actress who played Amy was very good as well and made a great scene partner. Still, I do wonder how these two kids handled such a frontburner story. Now it's going into the 1897 story and I don't know how that'll go, but it's starting off well. I like that it seems so different from 1795 and they seem to be trying to set the two times apart. The only thing I don't like is Barnabas as an evil vampire after so long of him redeeming himself and being good. I know he's only using it to help David, but I'm over seeing him as a bloody vampire. He redeemed himself with the 1795 explanation IMO. One thing I didn't like about the Ghost/Werewolf story is how it ended. They left so many mini cliffhangers and I just don't know if they'll revisit them all when they come back. What will happen with Sabrina and her revelation that Chris is a werewolf? What will happen to Chris? Will he stick around long term? I certainly hope so! Chris and Amy have been good additions to the show. I'd rather him than that awful Jeff Clark/Peter Bradford who keeps popping up.

I'm a month behind, but still enjoying the show. They're in a transitional stage, but lots of the stories show great promise. I really love what they seem to be doing with Sasha. She's never been as important as I feel she should be. The actress is fantastic, gorgeous and the most interesting member of that clan. Her relationship with Spencer and Warren is possibly the most different angle they could've gone with after Louise. I just met Zak's sister (i've only watched up to feb 2nd) and I like her so far. It's nice that they're developing family for him. I'm glad Kris and Zak have lasted past most of their original flatmates. Zoe and Sarah's storyline continues to be fantastic and the only good thing Sarah has done since entering Hollyoaks. I HATE Darren's story and feel like the stuff with him, Steph, Rhys and Cindy is the weakest link on the show. Steph and Cindy are great characters, but totally wasted up until the point I've watched. I don't love Russ as a teacher and I miss seeing the McQueen's. Overall it's an interesting period for the show. I'd liek to see Tony back and more of the McQueen's besides just Michaela.

Right now I'm watching the episodes when Vicki has been recast, not sure how long it lasts, but know it's not long. This first recast, I believe her name is Betsy Durkin, isn't too bad. It's a difficult role to recast, but I would've accepted her if it meant keeping the character on screen. I feel like her Vicki is stronger than what we had been getting towards the end of Moltke's run. Losing the character is going to be a major blow and Maggie just isn't a suitable replacement, IMO. I've always found her a big harsh and too fragile and whiny at the same time. Storywise, the Adam/Eve story is FINALLY over and Nicholas Blair is gone. I hope he and that actor never returns! I know many fans seemed to enjoy him, but that character and story did nothing for the show. Right now it's looking promising with this warewolf/ghost of quentin collins story. Looks like they're going back to the basics which is just what I need after such an over the top story.

I've always been interested in clips of Hollyoaks before it was considered a good show. I want to see old school Tony, Mandy and Cindy. Especially Cindy. Or Zak when his last name was Barnes during his first go on the show. If they must keep Russ around, I'd love for his sister Sarah to return too. She was one of my favorites and I hated that she left so early in Kirkwood's run. She was miles more talented than Nancy or Sarah.

I'm about a month behind, trying to rush and catch up. I've always disliked Mandy and Louise, two of the ultimate hair models, but I'm loving Louise's exit story. She's revealed to Mandy that Warren is a killer and they're plotting against him currently. I can't wait to see where this story goes because it's doubtful Warren is going anywhere. How will they shut Mandy up? Don't tell me. I know Louise dies somehow, but thats all I know. The Roy family is growing on me the more I see them. If they find a proper love interest for Laila, I could really get behind them. The new crop of college kids isn't as good as the last though. I LOVED Zak, Zoe, Jess, Kris, etc. Glad that Zak is still around, but wish the group weren't so fragmented. It's interesting you guys see them doing a triangle with Kris/Nancy/Ravi since they have never really explored the gay side of Kris' bi natural. I'd like to see him full on with a guy for a while. Right now my favorite characters (besides Kris and Zak of course) would be Cindy, Malachy, Mercedes and surprisingly Louise. I even find myself enjoying Sasha! It's very odd how things have changed in Hollyoaks, lol. Can't wait to see Christmas and what the new year brings.

I've never enjoyed Hannah, so another one that isn't a big deal for me. But she is a good actress so I could see her having future successes.

PRAISE JESUS!!! I couldn't handle Mandy and Louise for much longer. I'm still downloading Monday's episode but I'm like three episodes behind so yeah, I need to get on that. I'm really interested in the Ravi twist and hope they pursue this, possibly with Kris. The only female relationship of Kris' that I enjoyed was Jess. I'd like them to seriously try and pair him with a guy.

Thanks for filling me in! I'm glad that they wrote Amy's hair loss in considering it's such a drastic change. I kinda like the new look and surprisingly love the character now. She went from the most annoying thing on earth to tolerable! What?! Will be interesting to see where her relationship with Michaela goes if she finds out about Michaela's crush on Mike. As I watch more episodes I find myself enjoying Hollyoaks again like the old days. I will never find the stories involving Steph, Louise and Mandy interesting or Newt/Lauren, but the rest makes up for it. I can't wait to see Kris. Is he still friends with Zak? The Zak/Jessica/Zoe/Warren/Kris group was my favorite part of the series when BBCAmerica was screening it. Speaking of Jessica, she's what I wish Louise could've been. An extremely beautiful actress who could actually act. They need someone like her playing Louise (and Mandy). The McQueen drama is fantastic as always. Haven't seen enough to understand where they are now, but the chemistry is still there and none has lost an once of their personality. Mercedes was always my favorite so I can't wait to see more of her HIV scare. Couldn't be further from what I expected for her. Would create interesting long term story. I know it's not right to say this, but Niall is very sexy!

I posted this in the wrong Hollyoaks thread... When I read that Tina died I had to tune back in. I'm starting with the week of Oct. 6th and the show has changed so much. So many new characters, Mandy and Louise are more bland than ever and the tone seems different. More traditionally soapy. So far I'm not in love, but I realize Hollyoaks features different sets of characters at time. I've never liked Louise, Mandy or Steph so it's possible that's why this week is "meh" to be so far. Can somebody tell me who this black girl with an afro is? I don't like her or Newt. Did my lovely Zak really sleep with Michaela? That's cute! Where has Amy's hair gone?

A doctor found out Barnabas was a vampire and created a person (think Frankenstein) that was supposed to cure Barnabas of his vampireism. The plan was for Barnabas to become the new man, but things went wrong and you had two separate people only Barnabas was no longer a vampire. In order to stay human Adam had to stay alive which was difficult considering all the trouble Adam caused. He was very child like and had to be taught all the different things that a human does. In the beginning it was great, but it goes on and on and is so boring. Then Adam wants a mate so they creative Eve who ends up having the soul of this evil witch for the past. This time it was actually successful and she was put into the new human body. A big problem with this story is that it only utilizes a select few and leaves most of the cast on the backburner. DS usually was good about using the entire cast, especially when they went into the past for stories. It's just a little too silly for me.

I have the entire series on DVD and have been making my way through it. Right now I've been going through an extremely painful period with this whole Adam and now Eve story. I'll be happy when this is off my screen. The show was on such a roll with 1875, but this is just horrible. It works in parts but feels like it's dragging on forever and only involved a few characters.

I remember hating the show for t he first full two weeks at least. I only stuck with it because I had it on DVD so I felt I may as well watch them. I'm glad I kept watching because the show picked up speed VERY fast and they began work on developing the characters. The fatal blow to this show was introducing most of the characters and storylines on Another World. Hell, Reena was on that show as far back as 1979. By the time Texas premiered, all the stories were midway through and they did nothing to recap viewers or introduce them to a new show. It was just your average, dare I say slow and uneventful, week. I felt like I was just tuning into a soap, not being introduced to a brand new one. I'm sure other new viewers (perhaps Dallas fans looking for a daytime fix?) felt the same way.

I've loved the chance to watch a soap from the beginning and see how a sprawling saga is started off. Unlike Ryan's Hope, I don't have years of story to look forward to, but Texas had a super strong, albeit short run. Many people say that the show began poorly, but I thought the opening storylines were mostly good. The Corrington's created a strong enough set of characters that future writers kept many of them on as the series progressed. It was a tad bit slow, but within a month or two things were firing on all cylinders. Allowing Iris to show her bitchy side was another helpful development. Her interference with Dennis and Paige after using Paige to get Dawn away from him was fun. A good case of "be careful what you wish for." My favorite character is probably Reena Decker who should've been shipped back to Another World when the series was canceled. I absolutely cannot stand Elena Decker, Ryan Connor or Jenny Marshall. They all annoy me and bore me to tears. Any other fans of this series?