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Reviews
Rock the Block (2019)
Lyndsay and Leslie's chaotic eclectic mess was an eyesore of mishmash styles, as if an IKEA store had exploded onto the property.
From the onset, it was evident that Lyndsay and Leslie's design choices were questionable at best. Their home resembled a chaotic mishmash of styles, as if an IKEA store had exploded onto the property. The result was an eyesore, a cacophony of clashing colors, patterns, and textures that could only be described as a childish eclectic mess.
Rock the Block season 5 culminated in what can only be described as a bewildering turn of events with Lyndsay and Leslie taking home the winning title. However, one can't help but question the judgment criteria and the taste level that led to this decision.
While the other three teams demonstrated coherence, sophistication, and thoughtful design throughout the competition, Lyndsay and Leslie's efforts seemed amateurish and lacking in finesse. From the unnecessary inclusion of multiple laundry spaces to the bizarre placement of a dog bath station far from the home's entrance, their decisions reeked of poor planning and tastelessness.
Despite the commendable additions such as solar panels and a sauna, these were overshadowed by the overwhelming visual chaos present in every corner of their home. It's baffling how the judges could overlook such glaring flaws and instead focus on superficial elements like bold color choices.
In contrast, the other teams presented homes that exuded elegance, functionality, and market appeal. From Keith and Evan's attention to detail in their ceiling treatment to Page and Mitch's clever incorporation of bi-fold windows, each home showcased thoughtful design elements aimed at enhancing both aesthetic and practical value.
Bryan and Sarah, while not without their own flaws, at least demonstrated a level of sophistication and understanding of their target market. Their zen garden feature and well-appointed living spaces reflected a keen awareness of what appeals to discerning homebuyers.
Ultimately, the decision to crown Lyndsay and Leslie as the winners of "Rock the Block" season 5 raises serious questions about the credibility of the judging process. By rewarding style over substance, the show undermines the efforts of the other teams who demonstrated superior design prowess and market savvy. In the end, it's a disappointing outcome that does a disservice to the integrity of the competition.
The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live: Bye (2024)
Episode 3: A Desperate Attempt at Romance
After enduring the nauseating love-sickness of Rick Grimes in Episode 3, titled "Bye," it's evident that "The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live" has taken a catastrophic turn towards the cringe-inducing. The excessive focus on Rick's pathetic romantic struggles is not only stomach-churning but marks a disheartening low for a series that once thrived on suspense and gritty survival.
The positive reviews that celebrate the return of Andrew Lincoln and Danai Gurira seem to overlook the fact that their reunion is overshadowed by a story so grotesquely centered on a love-sick Rick that it becomes unbearable. Any attempt at character development or plot advancement is drowned out by the nauseating spectacle of Rick pining for Michonne.
Pollyanna McIntosh's portrayal of Jadis, lauded as an awesome villain, can't salvage the sinking ship of this episode. While her performance might stand out, it's lost amidst the overwhelming love story, leaving viewers yearning for a return to a time when villains posed a legitimate threat instead of being drowned out by romantic sobbing.
Terry O'Quinn and Lesley-Ann Brandt may deliver decent performances, but their efforts are overshadowed by the sheer absurdity of a storyline that seemingly revels in the excessive drama of love-sick Rick. The few positive twists and action sequences mentioned by some reviewers fail to redeem an episode that ultimately feels like a betrayal of the once-gritty essence of "The Walking Dead."
The attempt to inject shocking twists and exciting endings is marred by the overarching romance plot, leaving viewers questioning the creative decisions behind the show. The departure from flashbacks doesn't rescue this episode from its nauseating focus, making it difficult to envision a path of redemption for a series that seems to have lost its way.
"Bye" doesn't just signify a farewell within the episode; it also marks a farewell to the quality storytelling that once defined "The Walking Dead." The desperation to inject romance into a post-apocalyptic world leads to an episode that feels more fit for a cringe-worthy soap opera than a series with a once-stellar reputation. It's disheartening to witness a show that was once a pioneer in the genre fall so far from its glory days.
The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live (2024)
Love sick Rick... oh, Michonne
The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live feels like a desperate attempt to wring the last drop of drama from a franchise that should have ended ages ago. This spinoff, centered around a love-sick Rick Grimes, stumbles through its season premiere and early episodes, leaving viewers with more questions than excitement.
Many reviewers seem overly eager to welcome back Rick Grimes, and it appears that the return of this beloved character has clouded their judgment. The overwhelmingly positive reviews for this lackluster spinoff primarily fueled by the romantic entanglements of a love-sick Rick and Michonne surpass obnoxious. The exaggerated dramatics of this overt love story would be more at home on the Hallmark Channel than in a series once renowned for its gritty survival tales. It's essential for reviewers to separate their enthusiasm for a character's return from the critical evaluation of the show's overall quality.
The primary gripe with this new spinoff is the overwhelming reliance on voice-over and exposition, turning what could have been a thrilling narrative into a tedious information dump. Rick's narration, framed as letters to Michonne in the series premiere, comes off as forced and melodramatic, falling prey to what fans have aptly dubbed "Gimple-speak." The creators seem to have forgotten the fundamental rule of storytelling: show, don't tell.
The exposition-heavy approach takes away from what could have been gripping. Scenes like Rick's intense brawl with Okafor or the confrontation with Major General Beale are overshadowed by the weight of excessive dialogue. The promising opening and the exciting ending are like brief sparks in an otherwise dull experience, leaving viewers questioning the creative choices made.
The character of Okafor, portrayed by Craig Tate, is a standout, but unfortunately, his potential is cut short. Lesley-Ann Brandt, known for her role in Lucifer as Mazikeen (which she portrayed flawlessly), disappoints in her portrayal of Pearl Thorne, with an accent that often borders on the ridiculous. The accents of both Okafor and Rick occasionally slip, distracting from the otherwise decent performances.
The introduction of the CRM, with its futuristic setting, feels out of place in a post-apocalyptic world that should be more Mad Max than high-tech. The dream sequences, attempts at emotional resonance, often land on the side of cheesy, making viewers long for the days when "The Walking Dead" was more about survival and less about contrived love stories.
In the end, "The Ones Who Live" offers a decent opening but fails to live up to the expectations built over years of anticipation. The love story angle feels forced, and the heavy-handed narration does little to salvage the episode. It's a lackluster start for a series that needed to prove itself, leaving viewers wondering if the magic of "The Walking Dead" has been lost for good.
Home in a Heartbeat with Galey Alix (2023)
Home in a Heartbeat: The Fast and Fabulous World of Galey Alix
Home in a Heartbeat with Galey Alix is the refreshing new addition to HGTV's lineup that brings a unique twist to the world of home renovations. With Galey Alix's extraordinary skills, her team accomplishes incredible transformations in just three days over a single weekend, while she successfully juggles her full-time executive role at Goldman Sachs. This show is a delightful blend of quick transformations, a distinct design style, and Galey Alix's infectious personality, dedication, leadership, and outstanding work ethic.
What sets Home in a Heartbeat apart from other HGTV shows is Galey Alix Gravenstein's unconventional design style. While modern farmhouse aesthetics dominate many popular home renovation series, Galey Alix fearlessly explores new realms, infusing her projects with fresh and unexpected design elements. Her creative choices bring a burst of originality, injecting homes with personality and charm that truly reflect the owners' unique tastes and lifestyles.
Galey Alix's dynamic and fun personality instantly captivates viewers, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere throughout the show. Her vibrant energy and genuine passion for design shine through in every project, making the journey of each renovation an engaging and enjoyable experience. She effortlessly connects with homeowners, ensuring their visions come to life while adding her own touch of magic.
Despite her demanding executive role at Goldman Sachs for over a decade, Galey Alix remains dedicated to her true passion: transforming homes. Her commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of the show. From meticulously planning each project to coordinating her team with finesse, Galey Alix showcases her remarkable leadership skills and exceptional work ethic. Viewers are not only treated to stunning before-and-after transformations but also gain insight into the meticulous processes that make these weekend makeovers possible.
Home in a Heartbeat with Galey Alix is a must-watch for anyone seeking inspiration, fast-paced renovations, and a break from the typical design trends. Galey Alix's refreshing approach, combined with her infectious personality, dedication, leadership, and exceptional work ethic, make this show a true gem in the world of home renovation television. Prepare to be amazed as she and her team breathe new life into homes in a mere three days, all while proving that a full-time job doesn't have to stand in the way of pursuing one's passion.
So, get ready to embark on a whirlwind journey of design and transformation with Home in a Heartbeat. You won't be able to resist the magnetic charm of Galey Alix and her team as they turn houses into dream homes, all in the blink of an eye.
The Walking Dead: Dead City (2023)
The Negan we all love to hate is back and I love it
The Walking Dead: Dead City, the latest spin-off from the acclaimed franchise, brings viewers back to the post-apocalyptic world in a thrilling and darker incarnation. The series jumps right in and wastes no time in reintroducing us to the enigmatic and ruthlessly cunning Negan, played brilliantly once again by Jeffrey Dean Morgan.
One of the most captivating aspects of "Dead City" and what I greatly appreciate is the revival of Negan's past attributes. Fans of the original series will be delighted to see him embodying the ruthless, calculated, and cunning persona that initially made him such a captivating character. Negan's return to his heartless ways adds a layer of tension and unpredictability to the narrative, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.
The show's darker-themed approach is another notable highlight. It delves into the grittier aspects of survival in a post-apocalyptic world, unafraid to showcase the harsh realities and unflinching violence that accompany such a setting. This tonal shift injects a renewed sense of urgency and intensity into the series, capturing the essence of the early seasons of the original The Walking Dead that made it so gripping.
The performances in "Dead City" are commendable, particularly by the returning characters Maggie (played by Lauren Cohan) and Negan. Cohan's portrayal of Maggie reflects the lingering animosity she holds towards Negan for his past actions, providing a compelling dynamic between the two characters. The complex relationship between Maggie and Negan, where she reluctantly relies on him despite her lingering hatred, adds layers of depth and intrigue to the storyline.
Furthermore, the production values of "Dead City" remain top-notch. The atmospheric visuals and well-executed zombie makeup and effects continue to immerse viewers in the post-apocalyptic world, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
The Walking Dead: Dead City shows great promise. Its embrace of Negan's ruthless and calculating nature, coupled with the darker thematic elements, creates a captivating and enthralling atmosphere. Fans of the franchise will appreciate the return to form and find themselves eagerly awaiting each new episode to uncover the twists and turns in this gripping new spin-off.
Instant Dream Home (2022)
Danielle Brooks makes this show unwatchable
The show has a good concept and it is interesting to watch what they can do in such a short time. However, Danielle Brooks makes this show unwatchable. Brooks is loud and hyperactively annoying and looks like she is suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder making it difficult to control impulsive behaviors and be overly active.
Additionally, Danielle Brooks doesn't bring any design talent or even input to the show. She doesn't take part in the pre-project design meetings with the design leads or take part in helping complete the renovation project. Brooks just makes routine appearances to act loud and goofy without adding anything to the show. Instant Dream Home has a good concept and a strong team of designers and laborers to complete the renovations quickly and professionally. Get rid of Brooks and the show could be a 7/10.
Shantaram (2022)
Cancelled
Just hours before the Season 1 finale of Apple TV Plus' Shantaram aired, the streaming service turned the season finale into a series finale.
Apple TV Plus canceled Shantaram after just one 12-episode season, according to a new report from Deadline.
It's hardly even worth putting time into watching many of these new shows on streaming services because they get cancelled so quickly.
The series is based on Gregory David Roberts' 900-page 2003 novel, which was previously eyed as a film adaptation before it was turned into the now short-lived series.
Shantaram follows a fugitive named Lin Ford (Hunnam) looking to get lost in vibrant and chaotic 1980s Bombay.
Lin struggles to avoid the trouble he's running from in an unfamiliar city and his life becomes complicated when meeting a woman named Karla (Antonia Desplat).
See How They Run (2022)
OMG this movie is so boring
See How They Run is a major snooze fest and that's the best thing I can say about it. I nearly fell asleep several times while watching it. The movie just isn't funny or intriguing. The story is simple with a basic plot twist. Only people with an extremely low humor tolerance level will find this movie funny. A messy tall stack of papers falling over or someone sinking into an old couch with saggy cushions is not funny. Some reviews say people were laughing in the theater aisles can't be true. I can appreciate dry humor, but this is an insult to dry humor. This movie is so bad, I don't understand how it got funded and green lit. Save your money and your time, this flick is a waste of both. Giving it 2 stars is generous.
Locke & Key (2020)
Never be able to get out of its own way and find an identity
It's not surprising this show got cancelled after a third season. While the premise is interesting, it seems to never be able to get out of its own way and find an identity. Locke & Key often appears one minute as a tween melodrama and the next moment a more serious horror drama. I attribute this to an inconsistent attempt in adapting this from the source material. A little less tween and a little more developed mature darkness would have done wonders. Locke & Key presented on screen in a more similar tone and style of Stranger Things would have made this series incredible. Locke & Key is still worth the watch if you're into tween melodrama with just a bit of horror.