Sumter Scene: March 23, 2024

Cracks in the foundation: Public health takes center stage in new documentary

BY DANA SIMPSON

Inspired by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and rooted in the history of health-care systems worldwide, PBS’s new documentary series, “The Invisible Shield,” explores the intricacies of public safety and global health. For the first time, as if by magic, the so-called ‘invisible shield’ materialized clearly before our eyes. What’s more is that when it appeared, we bore witness to all the “cracks in its foundation.” Now, four years later, we’re left to pick up the pieces and patch those very cracks so that we can once more have protection against the dangers that plague us.

“The Invisible Shield” premieres its first of four parts Tuesday, March 26, on PBS. The remaining three episodes will each air weekly on the network until the finale in late April. Eager documentary lovers, however, can stream all four episodes as of their March 26 release on PBS.org or on the PBS app.

Beginning March 26 with a look back to the Black Death of the 14th century, the first episode, titled “The Old Playbook,” shows how “public health has transformed human life, silently protecting us from disease and fatalities” since the 1300s. Diving into the stories behind everything “from quarantines to crosswalks” and “vaccines to modern sanitation,” the birth and modernization of public health has made a huge difference in our lives by increasing our life expectancy as a species (espe-

cially in the western world) and “[keeping] illness, injury and death at bay” (per PBS).

“The Old Playbook” opens up the rest of the series to an investigation into the COVID-19 pandemic, and why this virus was the one to bring the current system to its knees during one of the most technologically advanced periods in human history.

On April 9, the docuseries’ second episode, “Follow the Data,” speaks to the research driving public health forward. Per the official episode synopsis, “data has been an essential public health tool since at least the 17th century, when cities began regularly recording mortality statistics [and] has guided public health policy since the earliest practices of data collection in the 1800s to identify the spread of disease. ... But with public health authority delegated to the 50 states, forming a national response to the virus proves difficult.”

By showcasing a series of unique stories told by those closest to the center of public health, “The Invisible Shield” helps bring understanding to a complex issue that poses a lot of concern for the average global citizen. Punctuated by interviews, archival footage, data and insight from “impressive front-line leaders and global experts,” this deep-dive into the past and future of public health is necessary viewing for every adult or young person looking to gain more insight into the world around us while

preparing for what is to come.

In addition to those on the front lines — such as doctors, nurses, engineers, sanitation service workers, activists and more — former New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg is also weighing in on the conversation.

“Anyone who buckles a seatbelt, eats a meal without trans fats or works in a smoke-free workplace benefits from public health, even if they don’t realize it,” says Bloomberg, founder of Bloomberg LP and Bloomberg Philanthropies, and WHO global ambassador for noncommunicable diseases and injuries. “Public health policies save and improve millions of lives, but too often, their power is undervalued and misunderstood. This new series shines a much-needed spotlight on public health’s extraordinary successes — and the heroes who make them possible, every day.”

As “The Invisible Shield” closes out in episodes 3 and 4, the focus begins to shift toward the present day, as “public health officials face the headwinds of disinformation, science skepticism and government distrust as they begin the monumental task of vaccinating the public against COVID-19” (per the PBS episode synopsis). By Episode 4, “The New Playbook,” PBS looks to the future with hope, informing viewers of plans for the future of public health in the U.S. and around the world.

a Funeral’ remains amusingly magical

7 Scandals and sandals: ‘Summer House: Martha’s Vineyard’ returns for sophomore season

7 Original fantasyadventure series ‘Renegade Nell’ premieres

Horoscopes

The luckiest signs this week:

SAGITTARIUS, CAPRICORN AND AQUARIUS

ARIES

You may need to negotiate skillfully in various contexts such as at work or with your friends or partner to achieve harmony. You’ll have to make compromises and adjustments to cultivate happiness in all your relationships.

TAURUS

At work, you may experience some confusion and conflict. This could prompt you to start thinking about a career change. Take the time to weigh the pros and cons and get advice from those closest to you

GEMINI

You’ll find yourself in a position to stand out. This could transform your life in the long term. Your value will be highlighted in a variety of ways, boosting your self-esteem and self-confidence.

CANCER

You may decide to move soon, especially if the family home has proved too big since your children left the nest. In your relationship, change could strengthen or rekindle your passion.

LEO Your outspokenness will be evident as you express openly what others think in silence. A secret could leave you perplexed for a while. The Full Moon will have a revealing effect. A revelation will show you the way forward.

VIRGO

If you’re struggling financially, you could discover some interesting solutions. You’ll finally get the opportunity to invest in a project dear to your heart or, at least, to redecorate your home.

LIBRA

This will be an active and dynamic week. You may need to shake things up with certain people. Even if you prefer keeping the peace, it’s time to assert your position to re-establish harmony with those close to you.

SCORPIO

Your talents will increase tenfold, opening the door to a spiritual awakening. You’ll develop a deeper perspective and greater empathy, allowing you to see things in a new light. The artist in you could also be revealed.

SAGITTARIUS

A post on social media could inspire you. Someone close to you will play a key role in helping you become the person you’ve always wanted to be. This will guide you toward fulfillment and happiness.

CAPRICORN

If you have a jam-packed week, make sure to space out your appointments to avoid scheduling conflicts and minimize the pressure. Time is precious; carefully manage yours.

AQUARIUS

You could decide to radically change your life on a whim. This transformation could involve going back to school or starting a new career in line with your deepest aspirations.

PISCES

The heart has its reasons, which reason knows not. Even if you try to rationalize a situation, your emotions will influence your choices. Sometimes, you must step out of your comfort zone to move in the right direction.

New Streaming Movies & Shows

“Tig Notaro: Hello Again” (March 26)

Comedian Tig Notaro returns with a hilarious and sharply observed stand-up special packed with delightfully awkward misunderstandings, health scares made hilarious, and family moments with her wife and children that are simultaneously sidesplitting and heartwarming. From the “Make Believe Lounge” to the hallway outside her physical therapist’s office, Notaro exercises her unique gift for finding humor in situations ranging from the everyday to the bizarre.

Word Search

“DC League of Super-Pets” (March 26)

When the Justice League are captured by Lex Luthor (Marc Maron) in this family animated film, Superman’s dog, Krypto (Dwayne Johnson), forms a team of shelter-pets who were given super-powers: A hound named Ace (Kevin Hart), who becomes super-strong, a pig named PB (Vanessa Bayer), who can grow to giant-size, a turtle named Merton (Natasha Lyonne), who becomes super-fast, and a squirrel named Chip (Diego Luna), who gains electric-powers.

Where all the top choices can be found in one place!

“Gabby’s Dollhouse” - Season 9 (March 25)

Part live-action, part animation, this fun and colorful interactive preschool series follows imaginative young Gabby (Laila Lockhart Kraner) as she goes on amazing adventures — ranging from teeny-tiny to out of this world — in her dollhouse with her kitty sidekick, Pandy Paws (Tucker Chandler), and her other cat friends, Cakey (Juliet Donenfeld), CatRat (Donovan Patton), DJ Catnip (Eduardo Franco) and Pillow Cat (Sainty Nelson).

“Life Below Zero: Next Generation” - Season 7 (March 27)

A spinoff of the original “Life Below Zero,” this reality series follows the lives of a new generation of individuals who have tried contemporary life and rejected it in favor of a life of freedom in the brutal Alaskan wilderness. But, not all are made for this special and challenging lifestyle.

Help Sumter Police ‘Cram-A-Cruiser’ with toys beginning today

BY JAY BOBBIN

Q: I heard that Katy Perry is going to leave “American Idol” after this season. Is there any chance she might change her mind?

Freed’s Jingle with the Arts to present new upgrades with same traditional holiday magic

A: Well, there’s always the potential for someone to change their mind about anything … but in making her announcement during an appearance on ABC’s “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” last month, she seemed to leave the door open for a possible return to “American Idol” someday “if (the producers will) have me.

Perry will have done seven seasons on the talent competition as a judge — along with Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie, spanning the entirety of the program’s ABC run thus far — when the current Season 22 concludes, and she has indicated that she is working in new music. The show’s production schedule definitely involves a time commitment, with the judges having to go to different cities during the audition phase, then making sure they’re in Hollywood on a regular basis once the given season’s episodes are centered there.

‘Four Weddings and a Funeral’ remains amusingly magical

BY JAY BOBBIN

An original yet universal plot... an overnight star... enduring charm... “Four Weddings and a Funeral” checks a lot of the boxes that keeps a movie hugely popular over time.

Director Mike Newell’s British 1994 comedy — which MGM+ presents Friday, March 29 — opened a cottage industry of such films. Many of them have continued to involve writer and eventual director Richard Curtis, who used his own nuptials-attending experiences to weave the story of seemingly eternal bachelor Charles and his close group of friends and acquaintances (and their respective love lives).

The casting of Charles is key, since it’s hard if not impossible to imagine “Four Weddings and a Funeral” without Hugh Grant. He had done a number of period dramas in which he didn’t necessarily stand out, but the boyish vulnerability he brought to this role made all the difference. It also kept serving him well in other projects, including the Curtis-generated “Notting Hill” and “Love Actually.”

Charles and his immediate group attend weddings quite regularly, and at one, he meets an alluring American named Carrie (Andie MacDowell). By the time their encounter is over and she has to return to the U.S., they’ve gotten to know each other quite intimately. They’re destined to cross paths again — and again — and when they do, surprises will be in store. That relationship is central to “Four Weddings and a Funeral,” tying together what essentially are long vignettes, each focused on one of the title occasions.

However, Newell and Curtis are smart to give ample time as well to a marvelous array of supporting players who all have their moments in the course of the picture.

Kristin Scott Thomas, Simon Callow, John Hannah, James Fleet, Charlotte Coleman and David Bower are individually and collectively great as Charles’ “gang,” with Callow and Hannah standouts as a mutually committed couple. Callow’s Gareth is an energetic bundle of in-your-face joy (his bawdy laughs during a desperately unfunny wedding-reception speech are priceless), and then-film-novice Hannah excels as Matthew in the picture’s most dramatic moment. Also notable: Rowan Atkinson as a clearly inexperienced and nervous clergyman.

As big a success as “Four Weddings and a Funeral” was around the world, it had a particularly pronounced effect on the film industry in its native England. It became that business’ top homegrown moneymaker up to the time, and it obviously paved the way for Curtis to keep doing his particular brand of romantic comedy in his other aforementioned pictures that also grabbed hearts globally.

A Hulu series inspired by “Four Weddings and a Funeral” had a brief run, and the film got a mini-sequel during one of Curtis’ “Red Nose Day” initiatives, but neither lived up to the original.

However, the happy news is that 30 years later, that original remains as wonderful as ever.

Best Ingrid Bergman MOVIES

BY JAY BOBBIN

legendary roles — and will “always have Paris” — in this Oscar winner as Ilsa, club owner Rick’s (Humphrey Bogart) former flame who needs his help in getting herself and her husband (Paul Henreid) out of the war-torn title location.

“For Whom the Bell Tolls”

(1943): The Ernest Hemingway story casts Bergman as the love interest for Gary Cooper, who plays a soldier during the Spanish Civil War.

“Gaslight” (1944): The George Cukor-directed melodrama with a title that helped inspire a phrase still used today — for the act of plotting to drive someone insane — features Bergman as the intended victim and Charles Boyer as her highly suspect husband.

“Spellbound” (1945): Directed here by Alfred Hitchcock, Bergman plays a psychiatrist at an asylum who starts a romance with the new chief of the facility (Gregory Peck) ... which could prove dangerous for her.

“Notorious” (1946): Reteaming with Hitchcock, Bergman plays a novice government spy who becomes close to one of her investigation subjects (Cary Grant). This is the other half of TCM’s Bergman double bill on March 24.

“Joan of Arc” (1948): Bergman excels as the military leader who literally guides her army on faith.

“Under Capricorn” (1949): In another round with Hitchcock, Bergman plays a landowner’s (Joseph Cotten) wife reunited with an old friend (Michael Wilding).

“Anastasia” (1956): A superb Bergman plays the object of a scheme to bilk the Bank of England, by having her pose as a long-absent Russian royal.

“Cactus Flower” (1969): In this film of a hit play, Bergman has fun — as should viewers — as a receptionist enlisted to help her dentist boss (Walter Matthau) steer his girlfriend (Oscar winner Goldie Hawn) away from marital thoughts.

“Murder on the Orient Express” (1974): Bergman won an Oscar as a missionary who may not be who she seems — which goes for virtually every character in director Sidney Lumet’s superbly elegant version of the Agatha Christie mystery.

Scandals and sandals: ‘Summer House: Martha’s Vineyard’ returns for steamy sophomore season

Just like magic: Original fantasy-adventure series ‘Renegade Nell’ premieres

BY DANA SIMPSON

One exceptional young woman drives polite society mad on her journey to fulfill an unexpected destiny in “Renegade Nell,” an original historical adventure series premiering Friday, March 29, on Disney+. All eight episodes of the family-friendly fantasy series drop on the streamer on premiere day.

Nell Jackson, portrayed by “Derry Girls” star Louisa Harland, is a clever, brave woman who makes a name for herself as a highwaywoman in 18th-century England after she is framed for murder. Petty theft on the road keeps Nell afloat until she discovers she is destined for something beyond her wildest imagination. When powers enchant Nell, they make her even more of a force than she was on her own.

A magical spirit appears to Nell in the form of Billy Blind (Nick Mohammed, “Ted Lasso”) to help her on her adventures — a sort of Tinker Bell-type fairy sidekick. Nell’s abilities to evade capture and survive on her own get her into as much trouble as they keep her out of. With seemingly everyone after her for one reason or another, Nell thrives as an outlaw possessed by magical powers that make her stronger, faster and more capable than she ever was before. Also starring in “Renegade Nell” are Frank Dillane (“Fear the Walking Dead”) as Nell’s difficult, fair-weather friend, Charles Devereux; Adrian Lester (“The Undeclared War”) as the well-connected Earl

from the Couch

“WEDNESDAY: SEASON 1”

“The Addams Family” meets Tim Burton, who had a big creative hand here – including his directing of the first four episodes – in this popular Netflix series that takes the family’s daughter (played by Jenna Ortega) to the macabre private school that her parents Gomez and Morticia (Luis Guzman, Catherine Zeta-Jones) attended in their youth. Her psychic abilities ensure that Nevermore Academy is the right place for her, though she ends up in a battle of wills with the principal (Gwendoline Christie) as she takes it upon herself to probe a murder. Christina Ricci, Riki Lindhome, Jamie McShane, Hunter Doohan and

er-hungry Sofia Wilmot; and Joely Richardson (“The Sandman”) as oddball newspaper magnate Lady Eularia Moggerhanger.

Rounding out the cast are Pip Torrens (“The Crown”) as Lord Blancheford, Jake Dunn (“Big Boys”) as Thomas Blancheford, Enyi Okoronkwo (“The Lazarus Project”) as Rasselas and Craig Parkinson (“Line of Duty”) as Nell’s father, Sam. Newcomers Bo Bragason and Florence Keen star as Nell’s younger sisters, Roxy and George.

BY CAROLINE COLLACUTT

Sofia, a widow motivated by a need for power and independence, is the architect of a scheme to bring down Nell. Aiding Sofia in her plot is the Earl, an influential political figure with the connections she needs to get the job done. Unfortunately for the pair of strategists, Nell more than lives up to the talk going around town.

In an official trailer for the series, excited gossips speak of Nell, saying, “she’s unnatural,” and “she is formidable,” before Nell herself warns a foe, “you don’t want to mess with me.” Nell literally has the fighting spirit, as Sofia points out in the trailer, saying, “she fights as though she’s possessed.” Something comes over the titular renegade in these battles; whether it’s a firefight or hand-to-hand combat, a dark glow reaches her eyes and Nell cannot be bested.

Nell is joined on her adventure by her two sisters, as well as Rasselas. Inspired by the chance to chase his own freedom, Rasselas leaves his life as a stable boy behind to help Nell, Roxy and George on their journeys. The troupe, with Billy Blind in tow, earns quite a reputation all across the country while on the run. As Lady Eularia claims in the series trailer, “if you haven’t heard of Nell Jackson, then you’re the only person in England who hasn’t.”

Known for crafting satisfyingly complex adult dramas such as “Last Tango in Halifax” and “Gentleman Jack,” “Renegade Nell” is a bit of a departure for series creator Sally Wainwright, who is also the BAFTA Award-winning series creator of small-town British crime drama “Happy Valley.” In an appearance on “The Graham Norton Show” this February, Lester shared that the new series “is really good fun. It’s very different for Sally Wainwright. She’s put political intrigue, sprites, magic, lots of fighting, highway robbery and Regency England in a big pot, gave it a stir, and out came an amazing idea.” In further praise, Lester said, “It is really good writing and I have a really good time being bad.”

Percy Hynes White also are among regular cast members in the show, which was developed by the team of Miles Millar and Alfred Gough (“Smallville”) and earned several Primetime Emmy Awards (including one for Danny Elfman’s theme music) for this maiden season; a second round is in the works. *** (Not rated: AS, V) (Also on Blu-ray)

“GOOD BURGER 2”

“Only“ 26 years after the original 1997 movie, “Good Burger” got a sequel reuniting Kenan Thompson and Kel Mitchell, who spun the films off from a sketch on their Nickelodeon series “All That.” Their characters Dexter and Ed have differing thoughts about turning the title restaurant into an international franchise, and the attorney for the conglomerate they get into business with (Lil Rel Howery) has his own designs on what to do with the original site – and it isn’t good. The resulting situation takes on comedic sci-fi aspects as Dexter and Ed try to make things come out right for all concerned, including the variety of employees who have been loyal to the first Good Burger, some of whom are relatives of the two fellows. Other familiar faces who pass through the picture (which made its debut on Paramount+) include Marsai Martin (“black-ish”), football veteran Rob Gronkowski, Carmen Electra and “Saturday Night Live” alum Pete Davidson. *** (Not rated: AS)

(Also on Blu-ray)

“TO DIE FOR”

A new Criterion Collection edition of director Gus Van Sant’s dark 1995 comedy (with a screenplay by Buck Henry) gives the film its 4K Ultra HD debut, with Nicole Kidman in a breakthrough performance as a television weathercaster. Unhappy in her marriage, she sets out to sway several teenagers (Joaquin Phoenix, Casey Affleck, Alison Folland) to help in her scheme to get rid of her husband (Matt Dillon), then spins an ever-more-complex story about the prelude to the crime. Illeana Douglas, Dan Hedaya, Wayne Knight, Holland Tayior, filmmaker David Cronenberg and screenwriter Henry also appear, but a dazzling Kidman clearly is the star attraction here. Special features include deleted scenes and a discussion in which Van Sant participates. **** (R: AS, P, V) (Also on Blu-ray)

“NORTH DALLAS FORTY”

One of the best films about football, this 1979 comedy-drama based on Peter Gent’s novel has its 4K Ultra HD premiere, with Nick Nolte as a physically and mentally beaten-up player who starts doing some serious questioning of what the coaches and team owners want from him. His new relationship with a sophisticated woman (Dayle Haddon) causes him to have even more doubts. Music star Mac Davis made a highly entertaining movie debut as the squad’s charismatic

Following a chaotic, nonstop year of hard work (both in their personal and professional lives), Jasmine and the crew return for another summer by the beach, as “Summer House: Martha’s Vineyard” returns for a second season, Sunday, March 24, on Bravo.

“After introducing viewers to her group of business-minded friends, Jasmine Ellis Cooper and the ‘Summer House: Martha’s Vineyard’ housemates are back in Massachusetts for another summer of fun (which will be sprinkled in with a healthy dose of drama, of course),” Bravo reports.

During this sophomore season, Jasmine will be joined by plenty of returning friends from last season — namely, Nicholas “Nick” Arrington, Jordan Emanuel, Bria Fleming, Shanice Henderson, Amir Lancaster, Preston Mitchum, Summer Marie Thomas and Alex Tyree — but will also be welcoming the addition of newcomer Noelle Hughley.

Noelle, an Atlanta resident and friend to many of the “Vineyard” girls, was quoted as saying she is “thrilled that her friend, Summer, invited her to vacation in Martha’s Vineyard,” and, according to Bravo, she is “single and ready to mingle,” catching the eye of the ever-flirty Alex … that is, alongside her close friend, Summer.

quarterback, who’s more willing to overlook some questionable practices to maintain his fame and his paycheck. Director Ted Kotcheff’s first-rate cast also includes Charles Durning, Dabney Coleman, Steve Forrest, G.D. Spradlin and Bo Svenson. **** (R: AS, N, P, V) (Also on DVD and Blu-ray)

“PRIMAL FEAR”

Richard Gere gives a solid performance in this 1996 law drama, based on a William Diehl novel and making its 4K Ultra HD debut, but Edward Norton arguably got most attention for his movie debut as an altar boy suspected of the brutal murder of an archbishop. A celebrated attorney (Gere) takes the defense for the youth, while the lawyer’s ex-colleague (Laura Linney) prosecutes and seeks the death penalty. The Gere character soon has reason to wonder whether his client is as innocent as first thought, then debates whether to proceed on a different course with the case. Television veteran Gregory Hoblit (“Hill Street Blues,” “L.A. Law”) directed the film, which also includes John Mahoney, Alfre Woodard, Frances McDormand, Andre Braugher, Terry O’Quinn, Steven Bauer and Jon Seda in its excellent cast. *** (R: AS, N, P, V) (Also on DVD and Blu-ray)

“PAINT YOUR WAGON”

A musical with lead actors who aren’t really singers is a risk, but director Joshua Logan’s 1969 version of the Alan Jay Lerner and

“Nothing’s off the table when it comes to summer,” Alex pun-fully teases, hinting at rising temperatures and hot-and-heavy moments during the season’s trailer.

Meanwhile, Bravo hints that Amir is in a new romance (and that his new girlfriend will be paying a visit to the house), while Nick struggles with a complicated relationship of his own.

With romances in the air and relationships in limbo, eagle-eyed fans might be wondering why host Jasmine’s husband — Silas Cooper, heavily featured in “Martha’s Vineyard’s” first season — will not be appearing during this second summer. Fear not: Bravo has confirmed that Silas was unable to attend filming as he was serving in the Army overseas. The couple remain together and are reportedly expecting their first child together.

That being said, there is still plenty of drama to be had. The network promises that, “After spending the fall and winter apart, the housemates are ready to get back in the summer mood on ‘SHMV’ Season 2, ... [banding] together to escape their worries, discover the beauty of this exclusive enclave, and have an epic summer, it becomes clear that some of their friendships are fractured while others are in full bloom.”

Frederick Loewe stage hit – being released in the 4K Ultra HD format for the first time – took that gamble.

Lee Marvin and Clint Eastwood play partners in prospecting during the Gold Rush, part of a California community of lonely miners whose desire for companionship is stoked by the younger (Jean Seberg) of a newly arrived Mormon’s two wives. She then turns the tables and acts as a spouse to both the Marvin and Eastwood characters, leading to all sorts of complications. Harve Presnell and Ray Walston, both Broadway veterans, also are featured prominently in the film; the score includes “They Call the Wind Maria,” “I Talk to the Trees” and “Wand’rin’

***