The opening Late Show with Stephen Colbert was so packed with business, guests and music, it went several minutes overtime. But TV critic David Bianculli says “it didn’t feel long. It felt good.”
Author: David Bianculli
‘Public Morals’ — Or Lack Thereof — On Display In TNT’s New Cop Show
Set in New York City in the 1960s, Ed Burns’ new 10-hour series features corrupt cops and gritty gangsters. Critic David Bianculli says Public Morals has the look and feel of a classic police drama.
‘Fear The Walking Dead’ And ‘Documentary Now!’ Riff On Familiar Themes
Fresh Air TV critic David Bianculli reviews two very different new television projects – IFC’s spoof show, Documentary Now!, and AMC’s prequel series, Fear the Walking Dead.
‘Show Me A Hero’ Offers A Nuanced Take On Public Housing Discrimination
David Simon’s new HBO mini-series, Show Me a Hero, examines racial biases in New York City’s public housing laws. Critic David Bianculli says, “This 25-year-old true story couldn’t seem more timely.”
Jon Stewart Makes A Laugh-Filled, Sentimental Exit From ‘The Daily Show’
After 16 years as host of The Daily Show on Comedy Central, Jon Stewart presented his farewell program last night. TV critic David Bianculli says it was an entertaining finale from start to finish.
From SCOTUS To The Confederate Flag, Cable Comedians Keep Tabs On The News
Critic David Bianculli says the commentary, questioning and ridicule of Jon Stewart, Larry Wilmore, John Oliver and Bill Maher help keep news outlets — and newsmakers — honest.
HBO’s New Sunday Lineup Is Full Of Pleasant Surprises
Ballers feels like the football equivalent of the hip-hop world of Empire, and The Brink is reminiscent of Dr. Strangelove, but has its own modern take on the nonsense of war.
Are DVD Box Sets A Dying Business? Studios Hope The Answer Is ‘Not Yet’
As viewers turn to streaming sites to watch old TV shows, studios are issuing new DVD box sets of classic shows to a shrinking market. Critic Dave Bianculli suggests a few sets that are worth buying.
Letterman Signs Off, With A Heartfelt Guest-Filled Finale
Last night, after 33 years on TV as a late-night talk show host, David Letterman presented his final program. David Bianculli says Letterman’s final show was a strong end to an illustrious career.
Last Days Of Dave: Paying Homage To Letterman’s Weird And Quirky Legacy
The off-beat funnyman retires this month after 33 years hosting late-night television. Fresh Air’s David Bianculli says that David Letterman’s humor “provided a new blueprint for the TV talk show.”