The Forsytes Is Supposed to Be Ugly

PBS’s new version of The Forsytes, originally shown on Channel 5 in the UK, changes Galsworthy’s story about a wealthy family’s downfall. It speeds up the timeline, losing the original’s slow build of tension and sense of impending disaster. While new storylines add more characters and give them more to do, the series feels bloated and loses focus. Most strikingly, and ironically for a story about looking beneath the surface, everything is visually softened. The show is overly glamorous, with the Forsytes’ luxurious ballroom looking just as appealing as a poor woman’s rundown apartment. The older Forsytes, who should appear frail and outdated, are surprisingly youthful and healthy. And the younger characters are all exceptionally attractive, seemingly styled for social media. Instead of a story about a vibrant new generation fighting against the constraints of their conservative elders, it feels like a superficial tale of beautiful people with very little to worry about.

Netflix Is Making a Giggly Squad Sitcom

Lindsay DeSorbo and Paige Berner first connected when Lindsay applied for a job at Paige’s company, but they didn’t become close until they filmed Bravo’s Summer House together during the pandemic. Their friendship led to the creation of the popular podcast Giggly Squad—a name inspired by a playful jab from Kyle Cooke. The podcast has remained successful even after their time on Summer House ended. Similar to other Bravo stars, Lindsay’s public profile grew significantly after her breakup with Craig Conover from Southern Charm. Giggly Squad has expanded into a national tour and a bestselling book, making this new show another exciting addition to their already busy careers.

Ethan Hawke’s Underrated Western Series: The Good Lord Bird on HBO Max

This TV show is one of the best recent offerings, skillfully blending dark humor with a unique character study. It tells a compelling story of heroism overlooked in traditional accounts of the American Civil War, and it’s a faithful adaptation of James McBride’s acclaimed novel, capturing the spirit of the original book.