Camera Obscura Bookshelf/DVD Rack

Currently reading the deeply twisted Iain M. Banks space opera-to-end-all-space operas "The Algebraist". Incredibly dark and incredibly funny, and the gas-giant inhabiting Dwellers are one of the greatest creations of modern Science Fiction. Nobody quite combines the galactic-scope with the writing skills in this field. Peter Hamilton has the scope, but writes pretty generically. It's been a dark ride so I'm hoping for some light at the end of the tunnel, but with Banks, that's not usually going to happen.

The Camera Obscura HQ home-theatre (ahem) is screening the Region 1 DVD release of the 1995/1996 series "American Gothic" which is totally more drugged out and noirish than I remember, even though the effects occasionally look a little dated. The box contains five of six eps that never screen so that is cool too. The transfer is a little grainy, but I guess they did the best with what they had, which probably didn't include original 35mm film positives, of maybe they just didn't want to spend the money. Still, it's sufficient.

Also screening, because "American Gothic" is not universally loved around here, is Season 3 of the (God-like genius of) "Homicide: Life on the Street", which is where they really settled into a full-season-order groove. Amazing look, writing, performances, and music selection. Not even approached in quality until The Wire and The Shield came out, and they only really exist because of cable. There is no way that "Homicide: Life on the Street" would be on USA network TV if it came out now.