Mad Men

[Swedish Extrovert]

I just finished watching the last episode of season 3 and can't wait till this summer for season 4. Anyone else watch Mad Men? In my opinion, it's the best show on television.

To me, I think the real protagonist is Betty Draper. She's the one I empathize with the most. I was watching the show once and I could literally feel her.

While Don seems to be straight, I think his past is catching up to him, the fact that he's living a lie. He's so mysterious, which I think adds to his success. I kinda identify with this in that he's trying to forget about a dysfunctional upbringing and military past. I think his infidelities are a result of this.

The critics talk a lot about the shows chronicling of the changes in the social trends in the 60's and I see a lot of that in the three main female characters. Peggy Olson idealizes this by playing the role of the hard charging career-minded female, in contrast to Betty Draper who has embraced the homemaker role, and Joan Halloway who is trying and failing at balancing at both.

Then you have Peter Campbell, the rich kid who is constantly trying and failing at proving himself.

I don't know what to make of Bert Cooper. He seems legit, but I'm still wondering about season one where he was making everyone in the office read Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand.

I wonder if the sixties were as cynical and nihilistic as the characters in the show portray it to be - everything is fake: Don's reality, Roger Sterling's pursuit of happiness (found in his secretary 1/3rd his age). They all drink ridiculous amounts of liquor that could put any frat guy to shame.

It took me like 6 months to get through seasons 1-3, so if you want to start watching the show this summer, I would just recommend watching the last episode of season three. (Any prior episodes that are relevant to the current episodes are always addressed at the beginning of the show). Right here - http://www.bigvidpro.com/?v=thOIRgcwGogkmpzD8gIMog

I'm just really impressed with this TV show.

[SonOfLe-loLang]

My current favorite show.

[CHANGSTER]

Yep, its a really good show. I think I actually emphasize with Betty Draper the least though. To me, she comes off as a grown child.

[s0phr0syne]

Good show, but like you, I watched it online in blocks. Don't think I would have cared to watch it on a week-by-week basis, but we'll see whether I do as season 4 comes out.

Betty's nice on the eyes, but like Changster, I found her a tad underwhelming. I find it hard to sympathize with the whole cookie-cutter middle class emo tragedy, although it is a very real thing (not just in the 60's, but clearly even now). And to me, it is just a form of being emo--the plight of being middle or upper-middle class stuck in surburbia with no real problems but plenty of manufactured ones.

Very interested to see what they do with Don's character in the next seasons. I've come to like Peter, although he's such a douche, haha. Peggy's pretty sly too, and it looks like she's really growing some balls so she'll be a mover and shaker. Everyone's little quirks are what really drive the show.

[Swedish Extrovert]

I ****ing hate Peter Campbel, because as you've said, he's such a douche.

But yeah, I like Peggy. A lot.

Also, I think Betty's discontent isn't really "emo" as was said here. She's feeling the effects of 60s social pressure to confirm into a mold that really isn't her. And depression and angst transcend all social and economic classes. She does have real problems... upper class upbringing, trying to do what she's supposed to do, not getting it completely right. Sounds like my life.

Although, her solution to Don Drapers infidelity (to go out and cheat on her husband) wasn't exactly tactful.


I think the three SNL sketches spoofing Mad Men were great, too:
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[Endy]

I got season one on Netflix recently. Watched the first episode and wasn't all that taken in. Watched 15 minutes of the second episode and turned it off. It seemed to me that all the show was about was smoking and misogyny and I wasn't feeling the plot. I'm sure it develops (as the first few posts of this thread bear out), but I'm watching a bunch of other stuff too and didn't really have time to see if I'd get into it. I plan to try again this summer when I've got a lot more free time.

[Swedish Extrovert]

Mad Men is kind of a feminist show... it couldn't be more anti-misogyny.

[Endy]

Mad Men is kind of a feminist show... it couldn't be more anti-misogyny.

Well there you go. I guess the first episode had me completely fooled. All I saw was a bunch of rich white dudes treating female subordinates and spouses like crap and assumed that's the way the whole show would go.

[Kid A]

Betty's nice on the eyes, but like Changster, I found her a tad underwhelming. I find it hard to sympathize with the whole cookie-cutter middle class emo tragedy, although it is a very real thing (not just in the 60's, but clearly even now). And to me, it is just a form of being emo--the plight of being middle or upper-middle class stuck in surburbia with no real problems but plenty of manufactured ones.

Yeah I've never really liked her, but I think the episode last season where they went to Rome spoke volumes about what she really wants in life (glamor and power that Don, successful though he is, just doesn't provide) and fit with **spoilers** her leaving Don for a politician.

Peggy's rise to a position of power/self-confidence has obviously been fun to watch, but I think watching the weaselly Campbell grow up a little last season was rewarding as well. He seems to actually be taking his marriage a little seriously and is moving away from the constant cycle of affairs his co-workers specialize in.

It will be interesting to see where they begin next season; usually we have a several month gap between seasons, so I'm guessing the new firm the formed will be better established/in an actual office. I love the bits we've seen of Bert Cooper throughout the show, so I hope he gets a more active role in this new setting.

[Endy]

You guys have brought me around. I'll get that disc back from Netflix and give it another shot.

[Kid A]

Well there you go. I guess the first episode had me completely fooled. All I saw was a bunch of rich white dudes treating female subordinates and spouses like crap and assumed that's the way the whole show would go.

Oh, that continues as a major trend. Racist, misogynistic, homophobic...the leading males tend to be all those things. But it doesn't mean the show looks fondly upon it. The writers clearly want us to see how ugly these people (and the culture that produced them) are, with their actions deeply hurting the most likable characters and tearing their own lives apart.

[Endy]

Oh, that continues as a major trend. Racist, misogynistic, homophobic...the leading males tend to be all those things. But it doesn't mean the show looks fondly upon it. The writers clearly want us to see how ugly these people (and the culture that produced them) are, with their actions deeply hurting the most likable characters and tearing their own lives apart.

Kind of assumed that, but from the other posts in this thread it doesn't appear as though the female characters just sit back and take it. They actually make it interesting.

After the first episode I was left thinking, "Yeah, I get it. They smoked and treated women like objects." It's not that I was surprised by the portrayal the time period, it just seemed as if they were hell bent on making sure we got those two messages across loud and clear without much else to show for it. I like shows with plots beneath the detrimental behaviors.

[HEAV]

Best written show on TV.

[hambone13]

I ****ing hate Peter Campbel, because as you've said, he's such a douche.

But yeah, I like Peggy. A lot.

Also, I think Betty's discontent isn't really "emo" as was said here. She's feeling the effects of 60s social pressure to confirm into a mold that really isn't her. And depression and angst transcend all social and economic classes. She does have real problems... upper class upbringing, trying to do what she's supposed to do, not getting it completely right. Sounds like my life.

Although, her solution to Don Drapers infidelity (to go out and cheat on her husband) wasn't exactly tactful.


I think the three SNL sketches spoofing Mad Men were great, too:
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Those are hilarious. Highlights are "She wants a Grasshopper" and "Black people won't show up to your party, that's an example of party humor". Classic...

[yerner]

Breaking Bad pee's on Mad Men's head. WHOOOHOOO!!

[Chris]

My favourite show on TV. I own all 3 seasons (I don't watch TV actually - just this, Dexter and the Broncos).

I hear Treme is a great new show.

[Swedish Extrovert]

Well there you go. I guess the first episode had me completely fooled. All I saw was a bunch of rich white dudes treating female subordinates and spouses like crap and assumed that's the way the whole show would go.

Don't get me wrong, that;s a lot about what the show is... but it also follows the consequences of such behavior and the insecurities and depression the women feel as a result.

[Chris]

Don't get me wrong, that;s a lot about what the show is... but it also follows the consequences of such behavior and the insecurities and depression the women feel as a result.

Don't forget the emptiness that the men feel. It's not all miserable though... somehow despite all this the show remains a pleasure to watch (and look at).

[Swedish Extrovert]

Kind of assumed that, but from the other posts in this thread it doesn't appear as though the female characters just sit back and take it. They actually make it interesting.

After the first episode I was left thinking, "Yeah, I get it. They smoked and treated women like objects." It's not that I was surprised by the portrayal the time period, it just seemed as if they were hell bent on making sure we got those two messages across loud and clear without much else to show for it. I like shows with plots beneath the detrimental behaviors.

In the most recent episode, Peggy Olsen really tells off Don Draper, and Don realizes a newfound respect for Peggy as a result.

Betty leaves Don for cheating on her, and Mona leaves Roger Sterling for cheating on her.

Joan Halloway quits, partially because of how she was treated, but when they restructure the company they beg for her to come back realizing how important she was.

[Swedish Extrovert]

Don't forget the emptiness that the men feel. It's not all miserable though... somehow despite all this the show remains a pleasure to watch (and look at).

I know. Sometimes I get depressed watching the show.

[Chris]

I don't. I think there are more depressing shows. I'm only half way through season 3 but my favourite episode is still California.

How many tv shows can claim such a flawed protagonist? How many TV shows can exist without having to set up cliffhangers at the end of every episiode? Instead the show leaves me with something to contemplate particularly when thinking of my father / grandfather's generation (Don is a bit in between).

[Swedish Extrovert]

I don't. I think there are more depressing shows. I'm only half way through season 3 but my favourite episode is still California.

How many tv shows can claim such a flawed protagonist? How many TV shows can exist without having to set up cliffhangers at the end of every episiode? Instead the show leaves me with something to contemplate particularly when thinking of my father / grandfather's generation (Don is a bit in between).

Watch it high. You'll cry.

[Steve Sewell]

Mad Men is my favorite show on television. Oh and Betty Draper...SCHWING

[Swedish Extrovert]

Kind of assumed that, but from the other posts in this thread it doesn't appear as though the female characters just sit back and take it. They actually make it interesting.

After the first episode I was left thinking, "Yeah, I get it. They smoked and treated women like objects." It's not that I was surprised by the portrayal the time period, it just seemed as if they were hell bent on making sure we got those two messages across loud and clear without much else to show for it. I like shows with plots beneath the detrimental behaviors.

When I watched this world, I thought it was some sort of male fantasy type thing... drinking all the time, womanizing their secretaries.

About midway through ht 1st season (maybe earlier) I realized that all the misogyny, sexism, alcoholism, nihilism, racism, homophobia in the show was just an indictment of that behavior, and of the time. I would say it's probably the most profound show on TV, actually.

[Swedish Extrovert]

Mad Men is my favorite show on television. Oh and Betty Draper...SCHWING

Ever wonder what Betty Draper looks like when she's not in her 60's getup?

Don Draper cheated on this:

http://cdn.wg.uproxx.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/betty-draper-gq-hed.jpg

http://www.bustedcoverage.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/january_jones_5.jpg

http://outsidetheboxuk.files.wordpress.com/2009/03/januaryjones.jpg

[Mr.Meanie]

I agree. Best drama on TV currently, along with Fringe and Damages.

[BroncoBuff]

The critics talk a lot about the shows chronicling of the changes in the social trends in the 60's and I see a lot of that in the three main female characters. Peggy Olson idealizes this by playing the role of the hard charging career-minded female, in contrast to Betty Draper who has embraced the homemaker role, and Joan Halloway who is trying and failing at balancing at both.

Excellent comparisons of the three. The Peggy Olsen sex/pregnancy/secretly giving birth plot points were very well done. Probably the most moving storyline thusfar. Come to think of it, Joan's career compromises, to "marry a doctor" have also been quite moving ... Betty less so imo.

Just realized another distinction between these three: The compromises they make along the way are in inverse proportion to their socioeconomic standing: The privileged Betty always suppresses her goals and wishes, never surrendering to her (frequently burning) desires. The middle-class Joan, though uncompromising in career matters, has all but surrendered her personal life to a very damaged doctor husband. And working class Peggy (is there anything more dreary than her mother's house?) refuses to compromise one iota ... never gives an inch. She's slept with two bosses, given away her newborn, told off her family to move to the big city, and constantly asserts herself in the workplace.


I don't know what to make of Bert Cooper. He seems legit, but I'm still wondering about season one where he was making everyone in the office read Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand.

I think Bert's a one-dimensional character really. 'Atlas Shrugged' was a popular novel advocating a "screw the world, I got mine" philosophy called I think objectivism. Took me the entire first season to really accept the fact the actor was really Robert Morse, though ... the same skinny young hyper actor from the 60s.


They all drink ridiculous amounts of liquor that could put any frat guy to shame.

Well, you're the expert on frat guys' ridiculous drinking habits, can't argue there.


I'm just really impressed with this TV show.

I am too, love it. But there's three things that get on my nerves because they're SO overdone: 1) Cigarettes. Okay, we get it, lots of people smoked then, stop slapping us in the face with it. 2) Like you said, the alcohol. Every.single.time someone steps into an office, first thing they do is pour a double of straight hard liquor. To some extent this served as a class/power distinction (they never drink in bullpen/common areas, but always do in private offices). And I suppose the recovering alcoholic aspect of Duck's character helped the narrative of him as an outsider ... but again, we get it. Stop slapping us with it. 3) The sex. Every.single.main.character has cheated on their mate. Every one. Don't turn the show into a soap opera by pretending people were universally promiscuous then, because they weren't. And no, the 60 - especially the early 60s before November 22 - were not nihilistic ... furthest thing from it.

There, glad I got all that out. I feel better now.

[BroncoBuff]

This is the young Robert Morse:


http://www.nndb.com/people/899/000107578/robert-morse-3-sized.jpg


This is the Mad Men Robert Morse:

http://www.playbill.com/images/photo/r/o/robertmorsemadmen200.jpg

[Kid A]

I think Bert's a one-dimensional character really. 'Atlas Shrugged' was a popular novel advocating a "screw the world, I got mine" philosophy called I think objectivism. Took me the entire first season to really accept the fact the actor was really Robert Morse, though ... the same skinny young hyper actor from the 60s.


He almost strikes me as the comic relief how he's used. Not much depth so far to his character, but his Asian culture/modern art/Rand quirks are funny to me...as were a couple of his dress-downs of Campbell.

[Swedish Extrovert]

He almost strikes me as the comic relief how he's used. Not much depth so far to his character, but his Asian culture/modern art/Rand quirks are funny to me...as were a couple of his dress-downs of Campbell.

When he dressed down Campbell after Campbell told Cooper about Drapers secret, that was one of the few times I've laughed during the show.

That, and when the guy's foot got run over with a lawn mower.

[BroncoBuff]

He almost strikes me as the comic relief how he's used. Not much depth so far to his character, but his Asian culture/modern art/Rand quirks are funny to me...as were a couple of his dress-downs of Campbell.

Exactly. An example along those lines ... remember when Campbell marched into Bert's office blow the whistle on Don's change of identity, when we were all expecting big problems for Don? How classic was Bert's response, his delivery ... a pause, then the laconic, dismissive reply, "who cares?"

Plus the no shoes thing and the bow ties. Bert's an interesting character, but ultimately one-dimensional. That's probably why Smurf couldn't quite figure him out ;D

[BroncoBuff]

http://www.bustedcoverage.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/january_jones_5.jpg

January Jones is friggin jaw-dropper ...

Want me to ruin her for you?

STOP READING NOW if your don't want me to ruin her for you.



Okay, you asked for it: She dated Ashton Kutcher for like three years :~ohyah!:

[Swedish Extrovert]

Here's what wikipedia has to say about Bert Cooper:

Bertram "Bert" Cooper (Robert Morse): The somewhat eccentric senior partner at Sterling Cooper. He leaves the day-to-day running of the firm to Sterling and Draper, but is keenly aware of the firm's operations. Like many of his executives, Bertram is a Republican. He is fascinated by Japanese culture, requiring everybody including clients and his sister (a shareholder) to remove their shoes before walking into his office (which is decorated with Japanese art). He is a fan of the writings of Ayn Rand and implies he knows her personally. Among his eccentricities, Bert frequently walks through the offices in his socks and intensely dislikes gum and smoking (an oddity for the time, especially considering that Lucky Strike cigarettes is a major client). He owns a ranch in Montana and is a widower with no children. Don approaches him about buying back the agency at the end of the third season, which evolves into them forming their own.

[Swedish Extrovert]

Here's what wikipedia has to say about Bert Cooper:

Bertram "Bert" Cooper (Robert Morse): The somewhat eccentric senior partner at Sterling Cooper. He leaves the day-to-day running of the firm to Sterling and Draper, but is keenly aware of the firm's operations. Like many of his executives, Bertram is a Republican. He is fascinated by Japanese culture, requiring everybody including clients and his sister (a shareholder) to remove their shoes before walking into his office (which is decorated with Japanese art). He is a fan of the writings of Ayn Rand and implies he knows her personally. Among his eccentricities, Bert frequently walks through the offices in his socks and intensely dislikes gum and smoking (an oddity for the time, especially considering that Lucky Strike cigarettes is a major client). He owns a ranch in Montana and is a widower with no children. Don approaches him about buying back the agency at the end of the third season, which evolves into them forming their own.

I'm pretty sure all the characters in the show are republicans. Considering Draper, Sterling, and Cooper's push to become campaign advisers to Richard Nixon, and during the election when Betty Draper says, "I just don't trust that Kennedy fellow." And goes on to say some nice things about Nixon.

Also, the political adviser that Betty leaves Don for was talking about jumping on the campaign for Nelson Rockefeller for the future 1968 Republican Primary.

[BroncoBuff]

Hate to do this to you guys ... but these cry out to be seen:


http://www.xmfan.com/files/january_jones_457.jpg . . . http://img18.imageshack.us/img18/3762/januaryjones1.jpg. .

[Swedish Extrovert]

Hate to do this to you guys ... but these cry out to be seen:


http://www.xmfan.com/files/january_jones_457.jpg . . . http://img18.imageshack.us/img18/3762/januaryjones1.jpg. .

January Jones does not exist anymore. She IS Betty Draper.

[ShutDownPoster]

Mad Men is my 2nd favorite show, it took a close second place due to the bad assness of Breaking Bad.

What I loved about Mad Men when it first started was being able to watch a show that really dramatized the creative ideas in such a compelling way. As a creative director, its nice design porn to see Don just owning all the stuffy account guys. I will never forget the first time I saw 'The Wheel' and was just blown away by Don's idea and pitch to Kodak.

Didn't i read a story that back in the day - Aston Kutcher dumped January Jones and told her that she would never amount to anything....

[CHANGSTER]

I watch Breaking Bad and used to like it a lot. Now I'm just watching it to see the **** hit the fan. The thing is just so depressing I cant say its a favorite of mine. Any action by anybody on that show ends up bad. Its like Weeds but complete devoid of humor and levity.

[CHANGSTER]

Look out for The Walking Dead being developed for AMC right now. My favorite comic ever. Its about a group of people shortly after a zombie outbreak. Best part is if it takes off theirs pretty much unlimited material for the show since the book if still ongoing. Perfect book for a tv show imo.

[Swedish Extrovert]

I don't. I think there are more depressing shows. I'm only half way through season 3 but my favourite episode is still California.

How many tv shows can claim such a flawed protagonist? How many TV shows can exist without having to set up cliffhangers at the end of every episiode? Instead the show leaves me with something to contemplate particularly when thinking of my father / grandfather's generation (Don is a bit in between).

The California episode is amazing.

I also like the Kodak one, as well as the one where Betty goes into labor giving birth.

[bronco militia]

http://dlisted.com/files/christinahendrickswhodisbe.jpg

[s0phr0syne]

Look out for The Walking Dead being developed for AMC right now. My favorite comic ever. Its about a group of people shortly after a zombie outbreak. Best part is if it takes off theirs pretty much unlimited material for the show since the book if still ongoing. Perfect book for a tv show imo.


Yeah, can't wait until October.

I think they've got a 6 episode order on it for right now, right? Hopefully it gets picked up for a good long run. Any word if it is B&W too?

[Swedish Extrovert]

http://dlisted.com/files/christinahendrickswhodisbe.jpg

I subscribe to Esquire. Now I can't wait to get my mail tomorrow.

[ghwk]

You guys have brought me around. I'll get that disc back from Netflix and give it another shot.

You have to watch 5 or 6 episodes to get into the characters a bit then decide if you like it.

Roger is my favorite, a total narcissist but man do they give him some funny lines.

[ShutDownPoster]

I watch Breaking Bad and used to like it a lot. Now I'm just watching it to see the **** hit the fan. The thing is just so depressing I cant say its a favorite of mine. Any action by anybody on that show ends up bad. Its like Weeds but complete devoid of humor and levity.

Hey Changster,

BB is actually very funny - maybe not in the 'Dumb & Dumber' category. Let's not forget Bryan Cranston was awesome in Malcom In The Middle - and you do see some of that in Walt - like when he threw that pizza on the roof a couple of weeks ago.

Anyway I still love Mad Men too.

Now this is one lucky bastage - thats the guy in the back of the car in Super Troopers during the 'Meow' scene!

http://www2.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/62nd+Annual+Directors+Guild+America+Awards+FJeyQaa 2M6nl.jpg

[CHANGSTER]

Hey Changster,

BB is actually very funny - maybe not in the 'Dumb & Dumber' category. Let's not forget Bryan Cranston was awesome in Malcom In The Middle - and you do see some of that in Walt - like when he threw that pizza on the roof a couple of weeks ago.

Anyway I still love Mad Men too.

Now this is one lucky bastage - thats the guy in the back of the car in Super Troopers during the 'Meow' scene!

http://www2.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/62nd+Annual+Directors+Guild+America+Awards+FJeyQaa 2M6nl.jpg

Yeah, I guess humors just a little too dark for my tastes.

And what the what! How did that guy land her?

[ShutDownPoster]

Yeah, I guess humors just a little too dark for my tastes.

And what the what! How did that guy land her?

Landing on her as we speak - Hilarious!

[watermock]

So, WTF?

Why do you care, liar?

[ShutDownPoster]

So, WTF?

Why do you care, liar?


get off the booze - meant that guy is landing on her as we speak, not me. idiot.

[ghwk]

Some Great Quotes:

Don Draper: We should get married.
Midge Daniels:You think I’d make a good ex-wife?

Pete Campbell: Of course I love you. I’m giving up my life to be with you, aren’t I?

Ken Cosgrove: Pegs, a woman who looks like that will never sound confident, because she never is confident.
Peggy Olson: Baloney.
Ken: Honey, it’s God’s gift to bachelors; the juiciest gazelle is the easiest to catch.

Don Draper: Let me ask you something, what do woman want?
Roger Sterling: Who cares?

Roger Sterling: (to Don) At some point, we've all parked in the wrong garage.


And the classic from the Kodak episode
Don Draper: Well, technology is a glittering lure, but um there is the rare occasion when the public can be engaged on a level beyond flash, if they have a sentimental bond with the product. My first job, I was in-house at a fur company and this old pro copywriter, Greek, named Teddy. And Teddy told me the most important idea in advertising is ‘new,’ it creates an itch. You simply put your product in there as a kind of calamine lotion. But he also talked about a deeper bond with the product; nostalgia. It’s delicate, but potent.

Teddy told me that in Greek, nostalgia literally means the pain from an old wound. It’s a twinge in your heart, far more powerful than memory alone. This device isn’t a spaceship, it’s a time machine. Goes backwards, forwards, and takes us to a place where we ache to go again. It’s not called “The Wheel,” it’s called “The Carousel.” It lets us travel the way a child travels, round and around and back home again, to a place where we know we are loved.

[Kid A]

Some Great Quotes:


From the lawnmower episode:

Sterling: Any news?
Kinsey: He might lose his foot.
Sterling: Right when he got it in the door...

[ShutDownPoster]

Some Great Quotes:

Don Draper: We should get married.
Midge Daniels:You think I’d make a good ex-wife?

Pete Campbell: Of course I love you. I’m giving up my life to be with you, aren’t I?

Ken Cosgrove: Pegs, a woman who looks like that will never sound confident, because she never is confident.
Peggy Olson: Baloney.
Ken: Honey, it’s God’s gift to bachelors; the juiciest gazelle is the easiest to catch.

Don Draper: Let me ask you something, what do woman want?
Roger Sterling: Who cares?

Roger Sterling: (to Don) At some point, we've all parked in the wrong garage.


And the classic from the Kodak episode
Don Draper: Well, technology is a glittering lure, but um there is the rare occasion when the public can be engaged on a level beyond flash, if they have a sentimental bond with the product. My first job, I was in-house at a fur company and this old pro copywriter, Greek, named Teddy. And Teddy told me the most important idea in advertising is ‘new,’ it creates an itch. You simply put your product in there as a kind of calamine lotion. But he also talked about a deeper bond with the product; nostalgia. It’s delicate, but potent.

Teddy told me that in Greek, nostalgia literally means the pain from an old wound. It’s a twinge in your heart, far more powerful than memory alone. This device isn’t a spaceship, it’s a time machine. Goes backwards, forwards, and takes us to a place where we ache to go again. It’s not called “The Wheel,” it’s called “The Carousel.” It lets us travel the way a child travels, round and around and back home again, to a place where we know we are loved.

The Carousel gets me every time - brilliant pitch, just absolute genius.

[broncosteven]

Mad Men is a great show, Character development and story lines what a concept!

I thought the end of last season was the best cliff hanger I have seen in quite a long time. Looks like they set themselves up for so much more quality story lines with the new agency.

Glad they didn't use the crutch of replaying the 60's just because it is placed in that time. There are a lot of parallels with today's outsourcing and corp takeovers and the like.

The 1st episode I thought the show would be all about men behaving badly but it got away from that quickly for the better though Draper has more sex with other women than he does with his ex.

Quality TV is out there thank-god it is not all "reality"tv.

BTW I gave Breaking Bad a year but didn't like it, then it turned into a boarder town scar face and lost it's appeal for me. Maybe if the show was based up North or somewhere where there wasn't a Mexican cartel it would have been more intreguing(sp?) to me. Typical drug lord stuff got old. I wanted to see a lower middleclass guy deal with dealing in a lower middleclass neighborhood, not fighting it out with Mexican drug lords.

[CHANGSTER]

Yeah, can't wait until October.

I think they've got a 6 episode order on it for right now, right? Hopefully it gets picked up for a good long run. Any word if it is B&W too?

I didn't think about that but B&W would probably be pretty cool. They'd be able to get away with a little more gore that way. I'm going to go scrounge for some up to date info.

[Chris]

I just saw the Rome episode from season 3 and found it... kind of heartbreaking. I hate that politician grease ball and wish he'd stay away from a married woman.

[Swedish Extrovert]

I just saw the Rome episode from season 3 and found it... kind of heartbreaking. I hate that politician grease ball and wish he'd stay away from a married woman.

I don't know if you'd seen the prior episodes, but he tried. Betty kept calling and coming over, but was kind of passive aggressive about it for a while before she started cheating on Don.

[Chris]

I don't know if you'd seen the prior episodes, but he tried. Betty kept calling and coming over, but was kind of passive aggressive about it for a while before she started cheating on Don.

I'm confused about this. I've only seen up to (episode 7?) the Rome episode.

The politician tried to stay away? Trying obviously failed. A real man would be able to control himself. The guy is bad news. I'm deliberately trying to treat these as fully fleshed out characters because the show does such a good job of it (and my god the music choices at the end are usually perfect).

[Swedish Extrovert]

I'm confused about this. I've only seen up to (episode 7?) the Rome episode.

The politician tried to stay away? Trying obviously failed. A real man would be able to control himself. The guy is bad news. I'm deliberately trying to treat these as fully fleshed out characters because the show does such a good job of it (and my god the music choices at the end are usually perfect).

I could explain it further... but it doesn't sound like you've seen the later episodes.

[Chris]

Give me a bit. As pathetic as Don Draper can be, you do root for him. Such an interesting protagonist.

As a 25 year old I see the show (along with reading Revolutionary Road) as a great big warning sign for life in American suburbia. I work a relatively top flight job but find myself selling my soul in the process. I wonder if it's all worth it or if it's just not me. I don't want to end up like these people. I know many do. Also Betty is a trophy and a good woman... but I don't think she feels like someone Don thinks he can meet on an intellectual level (partly his own failing). This is another criteria to be mindful of when picking who to spend the rest of your life with.

[L.A. BRONCOS FAN]

All caught up and waiting for season 4 here.

[Swedish Extrovert]

http://dlisted.com/files/christinahendrickswhodisbe.jpg

Okay, now I'm pissed. It's May 8th and I haven't gotten the May issue yet.

I've subscribed to Esquire for 2 years now, and the only issues they've missed is the Christina Hendricks and Bar Refaeli issues, which are conversely the two hottest issues Esquire had published in the last several years.

Coincidence?

[HEAV]

Okay, now I'm pissed. It's May 8th and I haven't gotten the May issue yet.

I've subscribed to Esquire for 2 years now, and the only issues they've missed is the Christina Hendricks and Bar Refaeli issues, which are conversely the two hottest issues Esquire had published in the last several years.

Coincidence?

I'd question your mail-man.

[Swedish Extrovert]

I'd question your mail-man.

Of course, when John McCain, John Edwards, Alan Greenspan and Tom Brady were on the cover, I got the issues no problem.

[Miss I.]

Been watching mad men via net feed the last few weeks, in the middle of season 2 at this point. For the most part I would agree with Buff's very in depth earlier analysis.

My favorite female was actually Midge (I realize she was a brief ancillary character) because she had her own successful career and played like the boys. Does and says what she wants when she wants.

From a female perspective, I get Peggy, but so far I find her just a tad too pushy and straightlaced in certain respects, but I suspect I am partly annoyed by her because I see some of those qualities in me and it's not always fun to see your own reflection. Joan is likely my favorite because she's pretty sassy and it's nice to see a woman on tv who looks like she might actually have real parts. Betty, I feel bad for because Don is such a asshat sometimes. I just saw an episode where she was wearing a really cool swim suit, made her look insanely gorgeous and he basically told her it made her look desperate so he could keep his wife in line (this right after he comes back with sleeping with someone else's wife). I like him and that he's flawed, but sometimes I want to hit him with stuff.

But to me, even with the dated sexism, etc, the relationship issues are still relevant. And the character qualities are some I still see in myself and others. Good show indeed.

[Swedish Extrovert]

Bump for season 4.

Betty has left Don... the British company tries to buy out Sterling Cooper, so they let it, then they all quit to form their own agency.

Peter is acting like a little less of a rich douchebag. Salvadore has been exposed as a homosexual and fired from the agency. Joan Halloway tried to make it as a housewife, but her docter husband couldn't find work, so she is part of the new agency... I hope Paul Kinsey is still part of the show, but it didn't seem like it from the last episode.

[yerner]

Is it possible for a show to go from underrated to overrated? If so, I'm thinking Mad Men is a canidate.

[Chris]

I think Mad Men is getting better as it ages. I think all the folks that got left behind will still be there.

[Swedish Extrovert]

http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid101546270001?bclid=82069251001&bctid=221278117001

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[SonOfLe-loLang]

Cant wait

[yerner]

Any thoughts? I say...ehh! Not too bad.

[Swedish Extrovert]

I dig the new office.

Still hard to decipher Don Draper, though his flaws are just as bad as ever (the prostitute) and some weaknesses (the reporter).

I'm starting to love Peggy Olsen more and more though.

I remember saying earlier that I sympathized with Betty the most, but she's getting on my nerves with her new family.

[RhymesayersDU]

Great first episode, love this show.

[SonOfLe-loLang]

I dig the new office.

Still hard to decipher Don Draper, though his flaws are just as bad as ever (the prostitute) and some weaknesses (the reporter).

I'm starting to love Peggy Olsen more and more though.

I remember saying earlier that I sympathized with Betty the most, but she's getting on my nerves with her new family.

The reason i like Betty is because she's so incredibly flawed, just as flawed as Don, which made them an interesting couple. She went from being a trophy wife to a trophy wife.

Great first ep.

[Rohirrim]

I spent my childhood in that era. No wonder I'm so ****ed up. ;D

[HEAV]

Loved when Don lost his cool with the swimsuit maker (we make bikini's but we are prudes) and kicked them out of his office! Then at the end Don is telling the true story to the Wall Street Journal and telling it with bravado and arrogance.

Don started the episode down and broken, he ended it being the man he was before the divorce!

[Kid A]

Loved when Don lost his cool with the swimsuit maker (we make bikini's but we are prudes) and kicked them out of his office! Then at the end Don is telling the true story to the Wall Street Journal and telling it with bravado and arrogance.

Don started the episode down and broken, he ended it being the man he was before the divorce!

I think the Don we saw at the end might actually be different than who he was in previous seasons. The attitude we saw in the opening interview (refusing to talk about himself) and throughout the rest of the episode (reluctant to really take responsibility for the firm) was really par for the course, albeit he was more out of sorts that usual.

We've never seen him make much of an effort to sell himself - he preferred being an enigma, and his previous life/job allowed that. Now he sees (at the new company at least) he's going to have to take the situation by the balls if he wants to steer the company into the future and towards clients they need/want. Will we see this more in-your-face Don the rest of the way?

[SonOfLe-loLang]

I think the Don we saw at the end might actually be different than who he was in previous seasons. The attitude we saw in the opening interview (refusing to talk about himself) and throughout the rest of the episode (reluctant to really take responsibility for the firm) was really par for the course, albeit he was more out of sorts that usual.

We've never seen him make much of an effort to sell himself - he preferred being an enigma, and his previous life/job allowed that. Now he sees (at the new company at least) he's going to have to take the situation by the balls if he wants to steer the company into the future and towards clients they need/want. Will we see this more in-your-face Don the rest of the way?

It seems like a healthy mix, but Don is a bit conniving, so the end might just be a result of that. I found it interesting that he was intrigued by a young woman who was essentially Betty (even looked the same), so thats a sign that he's going to repeat the same mistakes...but we shall see. Great start.

[Kid A]

It seems like a healthy mix, but Don is a bit conniving, so the end might just be a result of that. I found it interesting that he was intrigued by a young woman who was essentially Betty (even looked the same), so thats a sign that he's going to repeat the same mistakes...but we shall see. Great start.

Yeah I read somewhere else where they put it well: now that Don has freedom to openly have any woman, it looks like he might choose a Betty again.

Of course, he'll always want something on the side to slap him around a little...

[TonyR]

...he was intrigued by a young woman...

I thought his reaction to having a woman play "hard to get" by turning down his "walk you to the door" advances was great. I was disappointed he would choose a prostitute over seeing her again at Thanksgiving, but I suppose it wouldn't be as good if he always did what he "should" do.

[HEAV]

I thought his reaction to having a woman play "hard to get" by turning down his "walk you to the door" advances was great. I was disappointed he would choose a prostitute over seeing her again at Thanksgiving, but I suppose it wouldn't be as good if he always did what he "should" do.

He did seem intrigued by the 25 year-old opera actress. She also seems to be way ahead of the other women he has had in his life. She's a younger, more street smarter version of Betts.

Speaking of Betts, she's now a villian (in my eyes) more than a victim.

[Swedish Extrovert]

He did seem intrigued by the 25 year-old opera actress. She also seems to be way ahead of the other women he has had in his life. She's a younger, more street smarter version of Betts.

Speaking of Betts, she's now a villian (in my eyes) more than a victim.

That's exactly what I'm thinking about Betts.

But what is it about the new woman that you see a lot of Betty in?

[SonOfLe-loLang]

That's exactly what I'm thinking about Betts.

But what is it about the new woman that you see a lot of Betty in?

She completely is betty, even down to her looks. Mount Holyoke grad, Betty was a Bryn Mawr grad ( i believe?). Both incredibly proper, smart. Betty was a model, this girl an actress. Its the same girl, cept younger. I bet its exactly what betty was like before she had children, and she's not meant to be a housewife/mother.

[Swedish Extrovert]

I don't particularly think that this was the direction that Weiner was trying to take.

Well there is the actor/model aspect, but there's obviously a difference in modeling and opera. Seems like she was less proper, seeing as how she ordered the Chicken Kiev, even though Don reminded her that she needed to wear a bib. There's a big difference between Mt. Holyoke (Catholic) and Bryn Mawr (Quaker), too.

But seeing as how I once sympathized with Betty, she is turning into one of the show's main antagonists now, I think.

[SonOfLe-loLang]

I don't particularly think that this was the direction that Weiner was trying to take.

Well there is the actor/model aspect, but there's obviously a difference in modeling and opera. Seems like she was less proper, seeing as how she ordered the Chicken Kiev, even though Don reminded her that she needed to wear a bib. There's a big difference between Mt. Holyoke (Catholic) and Bryn Mawr (Quaker), too.

But seeing as how I once sympathized with Betty, she is turning into one of the show's main antagonists now, I think.

You bring up good points, but this is the 1960s...so mt holyoke/bryn mawr are compared in the sense that they are both good all girl schools. They both seemed refined, though good point with the chicken kiev. but i have a feeling betty was like this before her children. Remember, this is the chick who shot animals with a ciggy hanging from her mouth.

[Swedish Extrovert]

You bring up good points, but this is the 1960s...so mt holyoke/bryn mawr are compared in the sense that they are both good all girl schools. They both seemed refined, though good point with the chicken kiev. but i have a feeling betty was like this before her children. Remember, this is the chick who shot animals with a ciggy hanging from her mouth.

http://mootpoint.wrenkin.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/betty_gun.png

Also, check this out: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/sfmoms/detail?entry_id=68675

<iframe src="http://videos.nymag.com/embed/player/?content=1NTSMC09XSVG822M&widget_type_cid=svp&title_height=24" width="416" height="315" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowtransparency="true"></iframe>

[SonOfLe-loLang]

http://mootpoint.wrenkin.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/betty_gun.png

Also, check this out: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/sfmoms/detail?entry_id=68675

haha one of the best pics ever. And she was never meant to be a housewife/mother and resents her kids for it. Ahhh, her and Don made such an amazing miserable couple.

[Kid A]

You bring up good points, but this is the 1960s...so mt holyoke/bryn mawr are compared in the sense that they are both good all girl schools. They both seemed refined, though good point with the chicken kiev. but i have a feeling betty was like this before her children. Remember, this is the chick who shot animals with a ciggy hanging from her mouth.

Yep. I don't know if the Betty parallels are going to be a big theme with this new girl, but I think they are at least subtlety hinting at it. Honestly, it didn't hit me until the back of the cab scene where her face looked strikingly like Betty.

Agreed that she was never meant to be a housewife. The Rome episode last year was her in her element - looking and living glamorous. The return back to suburban motherhood was crushing to her after that taste, and she quickly latched on to the first powerful man who gave her an opening.

[ShutDownPoster]

I loved this episode - it shows the incredible amount of pressure Don has to bring in business as he is the face of the franchise. He knows in order for SCDP to succeed they have to do creative that sets them above the pack - which is why he threw that Bikini pitch (totally love it when Don tells clients to I'd like to flip off!). He also realized by the end of the show, that he basically has to 'whore' himself out to the media.

So yes Don is back, as always - creatively his stuff is junk - but what Don is - he's a master manipulator and BS artist - and it's this type of ego that drives everything. One of my favorite Don quotes was when he went off once on Duck Phillips '...you need to be selling my ideas to them, not selling their ideas to me!'

[Swedish Extrovert]

For the significant number of people out there whose sole purpose of watching Mad Men is Christina Hendricks... or for people like me who think she is a perk from watching the show (no pun intended), this should be interesting.

And for people who are huge fans of the Shins and/or their side project Broken Bells, as I am, then Ms. Hendricks appearance in the most recent Broken Bells video for their single "The Ghost Inside" should be a fun watch:

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[Chris]

Gotta be honest she looks better in Mad Men. All of a sudden Hollywood casts an actress with breasts and people freak. She is certainly hot though ;)

[Swedish Extrovert]

Pardon my enthusiam... but if you are just getting into the show, here are some must-see scenes:

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Also:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ltl0EQ9O7Gg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R2bLNkCqpuY

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OR0w37yQ4MI

[Chris]

So, thoughts on the last episode?

The final scene with Don and the secretary was awful (great, but awful). The card saying "Thanks for all the hard work"... disgusting.

[TonyR]

So, thoughts on the last episode?

The final scene with Don and the secretary was awful (great, but awful). The card saying "Thanks for all the hard work"... disgusting.

I'm not clear on what she expected. She was so disappointed. What am I missing? Obviously he never should have slept with her and clearly he didn't handle it well. But what are your thoughts on what the major fuel of her disappointment was? Also, she has to shoulder some of the blame herself. Yes he put her in a bad postions but the nurse across the hall resisted his advances so she could have as well.

On another topic, why does that Lucky Strike a-hole hate Roger so much?

[Swedish Extrovert]

On another topic, why does that Lucky Strike a-hole hate Roger so much?

It was a power game just like a lot of the relations in Mad Men. He was showing Roger who was in charge.

[Chris]

I don't know about the lucky strike a-hole.

I think she obviously thought there was something there as evidenced by the kiss she gave to Don on the way out of the apartment. I'm not saying Don should have cuddled here in the office but there was a better way to handle it and in typical fashion he blew it. Bringing out the bonus in the same conversation? "Thanks for the hard work"? Makes her look like a whore.

[Chris]

On a separate note does anyone else miss the old offices? They were much better looking. I suppose the new look is more "mid 60s".

[ShutDownPoster]

It was a power game just like a lot of the relations in Mad Men. He was showing Roger who was in charge.

Yeah - power game - but he doesn't know if his come on to Sal has gotten to the rumor mill yet, right??

[TonyR]

I think she obviously thought there was something there as evidenced by the kiss she gave to Don on the way out of the apartment.

Upon reflection I think you're right.

[SonOfLe-loLang]

It was a power game just like a lot of the relations in Mad Men. He was showing Roger who was in charge.

Deeeed joo enjoy der furors birsday?

[Chris]

Deeeed joo enjoy der furors birsday?

Ah the only moment where they were obviously actors.

[SonOfLe-loLang]

Ah the only moment where they were obviously actors.

i loved that line

[Swedish Extrovert]

Is it just me or is Don Draper's behavior getting incredibly predictable?

[Swedish Extrovert]

Mad Men bump, almost two years in the waiting.

[L.A. BRONCOS FAN]

Don's new squeeze is a hot little piece! :thumbs:

[sutoazul]

I could finally catch up to all the episodes. Me and my girlfriend have been obsessed with this show for a about a month. Last night we watch the first episode of Season 5.

I found Megan to unattractive at first but after seeing her with the kids and when she had sex, I think she's ****ing sexy!

[L.A. BRONCOS FAN]

Don's new squeeze is a hot little piece! :thumbs:

Edit: Didn't realize she was the chick with the amazing rack from "Hot Tub Time Machine." :~ohyah!:

[Crushaholic]

Already, I'm anxious for the next season. The season that just concluded was my first full season watching the show. It's fantastic...:strong: