Q: I was wondering if "Fantasy Island" is being released onto DVDs. I loved that show and can't find any information.
A: From what I can find, the first three seasons (out of seven total) are on DVD. If your local retailer does not have them, online vendor Amazon.com does.
'Walking' toward awards
Q: My husband and I are huge fans of "The Walking Dead," and we were just wondering why this show has not been nominated for any awards. The production crew, writing, acting and especially the makeup and special effects are just amazing.
A: Well, it has received 10 Emmy nominations in technical categories, winning twice for outstanding prosthetic makeup. "The Walking Dead" has not only a large viewing audience but also some TV critics who are strong admirers, although I am not one of them. But these are highly competitive times when it comes to quality television, and a show has to be well done and able to break through a lot of other admired shows.
Consider Hitfix's TV critics poll in 2014; even though some critics put "The Walking Dead" among their 10 favorite shows, it ended up ranking only 20th overall — behind "Fargo," "The Good Wife," "Game of Thrones," "Transparent," "True Detective," "The Americans," "Mad Men," "Orange Is the New Black," "Louie," "Broad City," "Hannibal" and others. However much you may like "The Walking Dead," there's a lot besides it to admire on TV. So something's going to get left out of the awards.
'Maids' to return; 'Lottery' ends
Q: Will "Devious Maids" and "The Lottery" on Lifetime and "The Strain" on FX be back?
A: Yes, no, yes. Look for a third season of "Devious Maids," possibly in the spring, and a second season of "The Strain" this summer. "The Lottery" is done.
E-mail questions (with your name and address) to rheldenfels@thebeaconjournal.com.
