From Myles McNutt of Cultural Learnings:

• The Atemporality of The Pillars of the Earth and its Impact on Game of Thrones
  “Of course, considering the talent in front of the camera – with Ian McShane, Rufus Sewell, Matthew MacFayden, Eddie Redmayne, Alison Pill, Donald Sutherland and Gordon Pinsent in prominent roles – the miniseries is watchable, and has moments which hint to a greater depth which the series’ pace simply can’t indulge as often as one might like, but in the end one can’t help but feel that this is a miniseries produced by individuals who have too little faith in television as a medium for telling complex stories, choosing to boil down a narrative which would have likely been more engaging had it been left in its original form.” Read more.

Allyson Smith has been tickling Canada’s comedy scene from the moment she put down the chalk brush and picked up a microphone. With her sassy blend of in-your-face stand-up and hilariously insightful commentary, playing to packed rooms is just another day at the office for this former high-school teacher. Smith continues to remain true to her talent-show roots. Her down-to-earth nature and girl-next-door approachability have earned her the respect and friendship of fans and fellow comics alike.