THE CIRCUS: INSIDE THE GREATEST POLITICAL SHOW ON EARTH – this series began in 2016 when Mark Halperin, John Heilemann and Mark McKinnon put their collective political expertise to good use taking us behind the scenes with the presidential candidates, following them across country and venues as they vied for their party’s nomination. I don’t know how long the two Marks and John intended the show to run, maybe only up to the election, but it is now in season 7 and remains popular. I have heard good things about it since its inception, but resisted the temptation to watch because I am exhausted of all things political. This week I gave it a go. I am only on episode 8 of the first season, and I find it fascinating even though I know the outcome. In some ways, hindsight has made it that much more interesting. I am now eager to hear what these three have to say going forward, and what further details may be revealed, as I soldier on with them until arriving at 2022. Cheers Fellas!! Boyfriends/Girlfriends – 0; Villains/Scoundrels – plenty.

OUR GREAT NATIONAL PARKS – Marvelous documentary consisting of five episodes, each dedicated to a specific national park, mostly in other countries. Only one is in the U.S., Monterey Bay Marine Park off the coast of Monterey in northern California. Focused on conserving wildlife and environments, and narrated by Barack Obama, this piece allows us to glimpse rare animals and habitats up close while inspiring us to do our part to protect our planet for the good of all. Interesting, informative and enjoyable. Cheers! Boyfriends/Girlfriends – all the animals.

THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION – Yes, I know I’m late to the party for viewing this film. Based on the novella by Stephen King and released in 1994, the peeps rave about this picture. Michael has been after me for years to watch it. Finally I have. It is a decent film with great performances by Morgan Freeman and Tim Robbins. There are brutal scenes though, and the story itself is a downer. Prison life always is. Some peeps aren’t bothered by this since there is something like poetic justice in the end. Mike toasts it, of course. Austin loves it. I say it’s decent, but I wouldn’t watch it again. Boyfriends/Girlfriends – 0.

CHOOSE OR DIE – What was I thinking? This is not my type of film at all. A computer game, Curser, is able to interact with its player, read their minds, view their surroundings and wreak mayhem…..all in real time! Plus most of it makes no sense at all. Skip it. Zero toasts, boyfriends/girlfriends.

ANATOMY OF A SCANDAL – Latest series from David E. Kelley to drop on NetFlix. It was excellent – Dana agrees! A high profile member of British Parliament reporting to the Prime Minister is accused of rape by a co-worker with whom he had had a five-month affair. The captivating story plays out over six episodes during which we are treated to a huge twist. In addition, the significance of words, interpretation, actions and past behavior in sexual assault cases is readily on display. I actually learned a bit about the difficulty in prosecuting offenders when both sides present convincing evidence. The cast was top notch starring Rupert Friend (who always reminds me of Orlando Bloom) as the accused, Sienna Miller as his wife, Naomi Scott as the mistress and Michelle Dockerey (Downton Abbey) as the prosecutor. Josette Simon was superb as the defending counsel. An added plus for me was the opportunity to see how court is conducted in London. Toasts from the peeps. Cheers! Boyfriends – 0; Girlfriends – 1.

THE TEN COMMANDMENTS – This classic film from 1956 is a masterpiece! I watch it every year. Cecil B. DeMille’s epic tale of the Hebrews’ exodus from the pharaoh and Egypt stands the test of time. It’s loaded with Hollywood movie stars of the era who are in their prime, and features special effects that, although dated, still accomplish the task, as we journey with Moses along the path to freedom for God’s chosen people. Plus I never tire of watching hunks Yul Brynner and John Derek as well as timeless beauties Anne Baxter, Yvonne De Carlo and Debra Paget. Unanimous toasts from the peeps – kosher wine of course! Cheers! Boyfriends -2; Girlfriends – 3.

PROMISING YOUNG WOMAN – Carey Mulligan stars in this provocative, brilliant film that delivers a powerful message for both men and women. I was mesmerized from beginning to end (which is unforgettable). There are some recognizable folks in supporting roles, but this film belongs to Carey! Cheers Girlfriend!! A hearty toast. Boyfriends – 0; Girlfriends – 1.

AMELIA: A TALE OF TWO SISTERS – Interesting documentary on the life of Amelia Earhart told through her niece’s commentary interspersed with narration. Much like the mystery of the Titanic, fascination with Earhart’s disappearance has never waned. This piece is only 45 minutes long and worth viewing if you remain fascinated like myself. Cheers! Boyfriends/Girlfriends – 0.