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LANGFORD’S PICKS AND PANS

All That Matters

Florian got some bad news about Roman..

As I said last week, I can’t bring the clips of this storyline to you, but I did want to discuss it as it's an important arc for one of the most beloved TV gay couples. To begin, to my surprise, I’m really enjoying this storyline. Last week’s episodes detailing Roman's impending doom were terrific. The writing for this story has been unusually strong for this generally fluffy soap, and the acting is outstanding, especially by Igor Dolsgatschew, who plays Deniz.

The scene where Deniz begged Roman to tell Florian about his illness and then talked about his own feelings about losing the man he loves had me misting up as much as the actor. Dennis Grabosch as Roman was good, but I was really taken by his co-star's work. Dolsgatschew has come a long way during his time on the show and has proven to be much, much more than a pretty face. This is the best story this couple has had in a long time. Too bad it has to be their last one.

I also thought the scenes that followed with Florian, played by Michael N. Kuehl were outstanding as well. Kuehl, like Dolsgatschew has come far since his early days on the show. The actor has always been charming and engaging, but he has showed some solid acting chops of late. Florian’s reaction to Roman’s news, one of anger and hurt about having been lied to, was very realistic. I just wish the story wasn't moving so fast. I feel as if I can hear the clock ticking on Roman’s death. But I’m intrigued enough to watch it until its very sad and tragic end.

Hollyoaks

I have to admit I didn’t pay much attention to the gender dysphoria storyline when it first began last year because to be honest it really didn’t interest me. I don’t have to be compelled by everything gay in soaps. Still, because it is such a unique storyline that I’ve never seen done before anywhere, I began watching for that reason alone. And I’m glad I did. It’s been really well handled, and I have to commend the show for sticking through with it. But then, I would expect that from a sexually progressive show such as Hollyoaks, which currently has three separate story-lines involving gay, lesbian and transgendered characters. And there are more on the way.

As for this past week’s drama, it was good stuff with the kind of passion and heartbreak that good soaps are made of. Jason’s decision to cut all ties with Bart made perfect sense. As long as they continue to stay involved, even simply as friends, they’ll both always pine for more.

Maybe some time apart is what they need, but I’d really like to see them eventually become close friends, especially as Jason makes his transition from female to male. As for Bart, I'd like to see his relationship with Sinead end. He says he loves her, but it’s obvious he’s only with her because he can’t be with Jason. More importantly, their relationship is so shallow and Sinead is such an unlikeable character that I’d rather see Bart connect with someone else. He can do so much better.

People of the Valley

It was nice to see Iolo this past week. His appearances have been all too infrequent as of late. However, I think he was rather hard on Sioned. I can understand him wanting her to be supportive of Macs, but Macs has treated Sioned terribly for months now with his coldness, his distance, mood swings and lack of intimacy in their relationship.

Yes, she now knows the reasons for his behavior, but the past few months have to be difficult to forget, especially since Macs is still closed off to her, refusing to seek any help, not to mention asking her to stay with her aunt instead of the home they share. Being understanding only goes so far, and Sioned has been more than compassionate and forgiving than any boyfriend has a right to expect.