The Jones List Winter Watching

The Jones List Winter Watching

by Jennifer Sampson 12.07.2024

Colin from Accounts Season 2

You don't need to be a Sydneysider to appreciate the all-too-familiar characters in this season. Whether it's the typical Sydney hustler trying to buy Gordon's brewery in episode 4 "Ethical Porn" or the relatable experience of falling asleep on the train and waking up in Waterfall in episode 5, the show's humble scenarios still resonate.

While the initial episodes of season 2 seemed to chase the magic of its predecessor, the series soon finds its rhythm. The stellar writing and performances make you feel like you're catching up with old mates after some time apart. A particular highlight is the dinner scene with Meggles' new girlfriend, which delivers genuine laugh-out-loud moments.

Ripley

Remember everyone’s favourite 'Hot Priest' from Fleabag? Well, Andrew Scott is back on our screens, as Tom Ripley in this Netflix series. Fresh from his brilliant turn in “All of Us Strangers” he again turns in an awe inspiring performance in this fresh take on “The Talented Mr Ripley”.

Scott plays a charming New Yorker hired to bring a wealthy Italian's son back home. Far from the dripping with golden tans of Jude Law and Gwyneth Paltrow in Anthony Minghella ‘s 2000 film adaptation. This new series sticks closer to the dark heart of the original novel and is rendered in dramatic black and white. Scott is joined by the fantastic Johnny Flynn - talk about a dream team!

This eight-episode thriller is the perfect excuse to snuggle up on the couch with your favourite blanket and snacks.

FAKE

"Fake" is the Aussie drama you didn't know you needed! Inspired by Stephanie Wood's memoir, this eight-part series stars Asher Keddie and David Wenham in a gripping dating app tale. Keddie brings her signature warmth as Birdie, while Wenham charms as the intriguing Joe Burt. As their romance unfolds, you'll be hooked, questioning every twist and turn. It's a binge-worthy show that'll have you pondering what you'd do in Birdie's shoes. Perfect for a cozy weekend in!

A Family Affair

Oh boy, where do I start with this one? Despite having Zac Efron and Nicole Kidman on board, this film feels like it missed the mark. It's a bit of a head-scratcher, really. The characters seem paper-thin, and the whole thing has this odd vibe - like someone threw a bunch of movie tropes into a blender and hit 'pulse'.

Even with such star power, it's hard to connect with anyone on screen. It's almost as if the movie is trying to be everything at once, but ends up being not much of anything.

The Bear Season 3

Despite its flaws this season, this show's still a treat for die-hard fans. Let's be honest - Jeremy Allen White is an absolute scene-stealer. His on-screen charisma is off the charts, and don't even get me started on how he rocks that Barbour jacket! (Sorry, Aiden from "And Just Like That," but you might want to take notes)

But it's not just about the eye candy. The sheer visual feast this series serves up is something else. The aesthetics and cinematography are stunning. It's this attention to detail that keeps "The Bear" at the top of its game, making it one of the most unique and visually captivating shows on TV right now. I mean, we eat with our eyes no?

Presumed Innocent

Our boy Jake Gyllenhaal is back, and he's serving up some serious drama this time around. (Let's just quietly forget about that recent Roadhouse revival, shall we?)

It's a treat to see Jake really flexing those acting muscles again. And it’s a joy to see him head-to-head with his real-life brother-in-law, Peter Sarsgaard. Apple TV+ is dropping this series week by week. I'd say hold off until all the episodes are out. Then, when the next rainy day rolls around, cozy up and binge this one.

Bridgerton Season 3

Remember when this show was our lockdown lifesaver? But you know how they say timing is everything? Well, this show's time has come and gone. I’d say save your precious TV time for something fresh.

Hitman

After soaring high with "Maverick" and charming us in "Anyone But You," we were all gunning for Glen Powell’s next big thing. But this new star vehicle? Yikes.

I really wanted to love it, folks. I mean, it's Glen Powell. I gave it my best shot, but 20 minutes in, I had to wave the white flag. Don’t go here.

­Brats

As a fan of those 80s film classics, I was pumped to watch this. The trailer promised unfettered access to the Brat Pack alum (a term coined by writer David Blum in a 1985 New York magazine article).

McCarthy seems the most affected by the "Brat Pack" label, and it shows. Demi Moore emerges as the voice of reason, while the other actors featured turn into impromptu therapists for McCarthy.

It's fascinating to see how their lives diverged after those iconic films. But heads up - this is less a nostalgic trip and more McCarthy's public therapy session. If you're a Brat Pack fan, it's worth a watch.