In fact, as much as the media likes to put a downer on the quality of broadcasting in the modern age, we all know that without telly, things would get pretty boring pretty quickly. So in the spirit of all good rhyming children’s TV slogans everywhere, let’s celebrate, not denigrate!

The Institute Francais in has taken it upon itself to arrange the UK’s only TV series festival, featuring some of the most beloved shows on our screens. Strange though it is that this televisual celebration is being instigated by our partners across the Channel,  we can only be grateful to our French cousins for the treat in store. Let’s be clear, there will be no showings of My Family, but the comforting familiarity of characters from well-loved sitcoms such as Doctor Who and Skins should be enough to keep any attendee entertained.

The festival kicks off with the world premiere of Flight of the Storks, a mini drama that follows intrepid academic Jonathan Ansolme through a murky world of intrigue, deceit and murder, whilst embarking on a mission through the African jungle, to follow storks on migration. Alternatively, enjoy a comedy marathon, taking in British classics Peep Show and The Thick of It, whilst also getting an introduction to less familiar French comedies Kaboul Kitchen, WorkinGirls and Desperate Parents.

Saving the best ’til last, there’ll be a conversation with Downton Abbey star Hugh Bonneville on Sunday giving attendees the inside scoop on behind the scenes action, whilst a screening of Labyrinth will be followed by a Q&A featuring actresses from the cast Katie McGrath and Vanessa Kirby, alongside author of the original book Kate Mosse. Come Monday morning, you’ll have serious bragging rights at that watercooler.

Totally Serialized runs at Institut Français du Royaume-Uni, 16-20 January at 17 Queensberry Place
, London SW7 2DT. Ticket prices from £5.
www.institut-francais.org.uk/totallyserialized

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Curse or powerful tool? The TV has plagued and empowered the world no matter which side of the fence you are on – and the artists in this exhibition have all used it to explore this very fact. The Remote Control season has great works on show from ANT FARM, Harun Farocki, Adrian Piper and Dan Graham amongst many others. Accompanying the exhibition will be a series of talks and special film screenings that explore a whole host of exciting art and TV related areas, including art made for TV. A real insight into the small screen – not to be missed. (Words: Laura Thornley) 

Remote Control is on at the ICA until June 10th.  For more info, click here…

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Totally Serialized showcases episodes from the best of what the two countries have to offer. For the UK that means Death In Paradise, Misfits (all-nighter) and This is England ’88 (naturally) plus Q&A with the cast. The French proffer their star-studded Platane (Vincent Cassel and Monica Belluci) and Braquo, amongst others. There will also be industry talks about how to write for TV and Q&A sessions following the screenings. The event promises to be a real first, dedicated to a newly revamped genre that often looks like and surpasses its film counterparts. And if that doesn’t sway you, then get yourself down there in the name of EU relations. Your countries need you! (Words: Laura Thornley)

The London Paris TV Festival takes place January 19-22.  Click here for more info.

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