The final bloom for ‘Daisies’
Even if you’re still bummed, now’s the time to talk about: “Pushing Daisies.”
It’s still canceled -- boo! -- but, at long last, the final episodes of ABC’s whimsical drama about a pie pan with a magic touch start airing at 10 p.m. Saturdays. First up? The tale of Olive’s childhood “captors,” who escape from prison and come bursting back into her life. Fans of Ned and Olive (as opposed to Ned and Fred) will especially enjoy this one, as will fans of Kristin Chenoweth’s singing. (Saturday)
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Make time to talk about: “Summer Hours.”
It’s a quiet French drama starring Juliette Binoche about a family dividing up the estate of its late matriarch. Thoughtful and well-drawn, it’s just the antidote you’ll need in a summer of loud blockbusters. (Yeah, I’m looking at you, “Terminator Salvation.” My ears are still ringing!) (Friday)
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Been waiting for the next word in B-movie horror goodness? Talk about: “Drag Me to Hell.”
No joke: At one point an anvil will be dropped on someone’s head. And someone’s eyeballs will go flying out of said head. Who needs to wait for October? Cheers to Sam Raimi’s slapstick scares in May. (Friday)
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Power pop lovers might want to talk about: “Amanda Leigh.”
Sure, it’s a pretentious title, and “Amanda Leigh” is Mandy Moore’s sixth album -- you weren’t keeping track, were you? -- but it’s still worthy of a listen. Why? She worked with Candy Butchers frontman Mike Viola on the disc, and it’s one sweet pop candy treat. In fact, it’s all about the power pop lately. I haven’t even weaned myself off the confection that is “Tinted Windows” yet. (Tuesday)
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Ah, those sassy Southern belles. You know you want to talk about: “Designing Women.”
Maybe not all of you. But certainly anyone who remembers the ‘80s sitcom about the women behind an interior decorating firm in Atlanta would relish the chance to see it again -- and now that the first season is out on DVD, we can. I still whip out Julia’s “Have you completely lost your mind?” with a Southern twang almost every day. (Tuesday)
-- Denise Martin