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Top Picks: Netflix's 'Five Came Back,' 'Fences' on DVD, and more

John Mayer's guitar playing on 'The Search for Everything' astounds, Omar Z. Robles' photos of dancers are a must-see, and more top picks.

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Courtesy of Gary Moyers/BBC and Masterpiece
  • By Staff

Triumphant return

Following some controversial public behavior, John Mayer looked to have dealt his career a mortal blow. But, lo and behold, he has reemerged from the wilderness with eight cracking new songs on The Search for Everything, and a world tour (no lack of confidence in the boy). If you liked the old John, you’ll love the new John. The sexy swagger is back, his guitar playing still astounds, and the songs are hook-filled and tuneful. Check out the Marvin Gaye vibes of “Still Feel Like Your Man.”

Effects of war

World War II had a profound impact on the world, and Hollywood was no exception. The new Netflix documentary series Five Came Back tells of the time five famous directors – John Ford, William Wyler, John Huston, Frank Capra, and George Stevens – spent in the military and the effect their experiences had on their work as well as the films they made while in the military. “Five Came Back” debuts March 31.

Acclaimed adaptation

The film adaptation of the acclaimed August Wilson play Fences, which is directed by and stars Denzel Washington as well as Viola Davis, received Oscar nominations for best picture and best actor for Washington. Davis received a best supporting actress Academy Award for her work. “Fences,” the story of an African-American family in 1950s Pittsburgh, costars Mykelti Williamson, Stephen Henderson, Russell Hornsby, and Jovan Adepo. It is now available on DVD and Blu-ray.  

Artists in motion

For dance fans, photographer Omar Z. Robles’s photos are a must see. He’s traveled to locations including Puerto Rico and Cuba to capture images of dancers in action, with many caught mid-leap or in impressive and beautiful poses. See his work at https://www.instagram.com/omarzrobles/.

Family business

In the 19th century, some of the most well-known and acclaimed authors emerged from the same family. The new PBS program To Walk Invisible: The Brontë Sisters details how Emily, Charlotte, and Anne Brontë honed their craft and found fame, writing such classics as “Jane Eyre” and “Wuthering Heights.” The program airs on March 26 at 9 p.m; viewers should be aware of some adult content.

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