THE UNIVERSITY DAILY KANSAN
TUESDAY AUGUST 27, 2013
PAGE 7
TELEVISION
"The Thick of It" is one of two shows from the British Isles featured on Hulu. Many exclusive programs are now offered on Hulu.
BRITISH BROADCASTING CORPORATION (BBC)
Hulu bolsters varied lineup with popular foreign shows
KAITLYN HILGERS
khilgers@kansan.com
With Netflix making original shows, such as the hits "House of Cards" and "Orange is the New-Black," Hulu is trying to respond with what they call "exclusive programming." In general, these are television shows that have become hits in other places, such as Ireland and the United Kingdom. While this is a great idea, there are quite a few shows to look through (and watching ads is totally lame), so it is hard to pick one to watch. However, since the service is free, there really isn't any good reason not to watch a few of them. Lucky for us, three of these hidden shows are definitely worth checking out.
"The Thick of It"
"Moone Boy"
Following the introduction of Peter Capaldi as the newest doctor for "Doctor Who," British television fans have been trying to become familiar with him as an actor. The place to start would definitely be "The Thick of It," a British political satire that focuses on the modern government. What makes this show worth watching is, in fact, the amazing cast. While much of the script is written by the writers, there are also many points where the cast chooses to improvise. On the whole, this makes the television show more honest and also demonstrates why Capaldi was selected as the next doctor.
For comedy fans, this show is where it's at. Following the life of a 12-year-old and his imaginary friend, "Moone Boy", is a fun and heartfelt show from Ireland. Chris O'Dowd (from "Bridesmaids"), not only stars as the imaginary friend, but is credited as the creator and one of the writers. He also narrates throughout the course of the show, so that we not only get the imagination from the young boy, but the unique perspective of an imaginary character. Also, since Hulu only has the six episodes in the first season, it is very easy to just watch them all in one night.
"Prisoners of War (Hatufim)"
Hatufim, or "Prisoners of War," is an Israeli television drama that follows the lives of two rescued Prisoners of War. Sound familiar? That's because if you happen to be a fan of "Homeland" this is actually the show that it was based on. There are many differences between the two, such as the original featuring two main characters versus one in the American version, but the more interesting thing is to look at the similarities between the shows. It really demonstrates that deep down, we all just really enjoy smart and exhilarating television shows. Any arguments?
—Edited by Duncan McHenry
FOOD
Strengthen roommate bonds with housewarming dinner
DANI BRADY
dbrady@kansan.com
Moving out of our parents' house can be scary. We are excited to make our own rules and do what we want, when we want. But with this privilege come many responsibilities. We need to avoid throwing Project X level parties and, instead, focus on building relationships and memories with our roommates.
Don't get me wrong,it's important to splurge every now and then,but we also need to learn how to budget our finances and gather a sense of time management.
A housewarming dinner party with your roommates is the perfect way to start the new school year. After setting up our new homes, making class schedules, and learning how to manage on our own, a housewarming party is the perfect way to gloat over your accomplishments and talk about the upcoming year.
Hosting a dinner with your roommates and inviting over a few neighbors will slowly but surely teach you how to make a delicious meal, stay on a budget and keep a tidy house. Here are the few things you need to do to host the perfect dinner party:
1. Set a date
Talk to your roommates to plan a time that works for everyone - it's important you all are there together. After a date is set, tell your neighbors and friends - the more the merrier!
2. Clean up your place to create a homey atmosphere
A college house is a work in progress, so don't sweat it - a few lights on the porch or cool posters and pictures in the living room go
a long way.
3. Plan a delicious meal
Since we are always budgeting, make dinner for you and your roommates and invite your guests over for drinks and desserts afterwards. Below is an easy and cheap recipe you can cook at home.
Penne Pasta with Asparagus and Peppers
Ingredients
1 (9-ounce) package frozen cut asparagus
3/4 cup chicken stock
1/2 cup frozen chopped onion
1 teaspoon crushed garlic
1/2 cup roasted red and yellow pepper, cut into 1/2-inch strips
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
12 ounces penne pasta, cooked per package directions
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
1. In a large skillet, combine asparagus, stock, onions, garlic, peppers, and Italian seasoning.
Bring to a boil and reduce liquid to 1/4 cup, about 8 to 10 minutes.
Directions
2. Stir in remaining ingredients except cheese. Toss with hot, cooked pasta. Top with cheese and serve hot.
foodnetwork.com
4. Buy the booze
Everyone can enjoy a glass of wine with dinner. But after dinner, you can get creative with mixed drinks or play it safe with beer.
Malibu Bay Breeze
1 1/2 oz Malibu* coconut rum
2 oz cranberry juice
2 oz pineapple juice
Blend ingredients and serve over ice.
—drinksmixer.com
5. Give a tour
Housewarming parties are the perfect way for people to see your humble abode show your guests around and make them feel welcome.
- Edited by Ashleigh Tidwell