Reviews

Season 1:

The first season is set in a men's prison and focuses on two men who are on opposite sides. Both have to face the horrors of prison in their own way.

On the one hand, Mark Cobden, played by Sean Bean, a former teacher and alcoholic who killed a man while drunk driving and was therefore sentenced to four years in prison must learn to stand up for himself, otherwise he will be destroyed by his fellow inmates. On the other side is Eric McNally, played by Stephen Graham. A decent man who works as a prison guard in the same prison and is blackmailed by other prisoners. He has to decide whether to go against his principles in order to protect his son, who is in another prison.

Screenwriter Jimmy McGovern has succeeded in creating a credible, intelligent and genuinely moving drama that is completely devoid of gimmickry. Instead, it gets to the heart of what is wrong with the prison system in a calm and penetrating way. Because one thing is clear: it offers hardly any opportunities for rehabilitation. It is mostly run by the inmates and dominated by power struggles between inmates and guards.

It is a character study in perfection, with every theme, nuance and character brought to the point. Sean Bean and Stephen Graham give excellent performances, but the supporting cast is equally impressive. The dialog is sharp and to the point. The camera is restrained with blue, cool tones. The soundtrack by Sarah Warne wonderfully supports the emotional moments. "Time" tells of heartbreaking decisions and lets a tear or two roll down your face in the final episode. The manageable length of the respective seasons is compactly reduced to the essentials, so that no lengths creep in but there is still enough depth for the characters.

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Season 2:

The second season in the same format, set in a women's prison. It is just as raw, tough, uncompromising and moving. It again has an outstanding ensemble cast and a brilliant script, this time written by Jimmy McGovern and Helen Black. Also with a heart for the working class.

---------------- Conclusion:

Worth watching - An empathetic drama that gets the tragedy exactly right. This series is a perfect deterrent. "Time" has a harsh but truthful reality. A recommendation for anyone interested in prison drama. He characters.

"Nashville" is a captivating and engaging series that explores the life of the country music scene in Nashville, Tennessee. There are some who are in the music business who say it's just like this show. Ambition vs. Personal relationships; personal relationships that support ambition, and everything in between.

Of course, there are series that do something right and shine in certain areas, but few juggle multiple elements so skillfully. A great cast right down to the supporting roles, terrific music and a well-crafted script make this one of the best shows I've seen. With a mix of drama, music and romance, the series offers a gripping storyline and impressive musical performances.

Shot on location in Nashville, the look always retains its authenticity. With landmarks such as the Ryman Auditorium, the Grand Ole Opry and the Bluebird Cafe, among others, some new hotspots have landed on my bucket list and a visit to the "Music City" is a must. The camera work always offers a suitable and successful image design.

The characters are complex and well developed. Rayna Jaymes, played by Connie Britton, is an established country music icon who is faced with the challenges of growing older and the pressures of success.

Her rival Juliette Barnes, (Hayden Panettiere), is young, sexy and much more pop-oriented than Rayna. Her songs are in the charts. Rayna's kids sing Juliette's songs in the car. And Juliette is on the same label as Rayna. She, in turn, has to struggle with her rebellious behavior and her complex past. But the stories of other musicians and songwriters are also told, all of whom go through their own ups and downs.

What is really impressive and surprising here is the vocal talent shown by both leading actresses. All the performers sing themselves and the songs, which were written especially for the show by experts in the industry, are simply magnificent. Captivating, full of verve, but also emotional. They remain authentic and reflect the mood of the characters. Some of the hottest country musicians have co-produced the songs. Even Ilse DeLange (The Common Linnets) has a small guest role. The music was so successful that even after the series ended a year later, the musical "main cast" (Clare Bowen, Charles Esten, Jonathan Jackson, Sam Palladio and Chris Carmack) went on another world tour and played the most successful songs. To this day, "Charles Esten and the Nashville Cast" still performs at concerts in Nashville. The music is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the series.

The direction and script allow the viewer to immerse themselves in the stories and be captivated by their great emotional depth. The story of the series is full of twists and surprises. Intrigue, romance and personal conflicts keep the viewer on their toes at all times. It also deals with serious issues such as drug abuse, family problems and the price of fame. This makes it not only an entertaining series, but also a reflection on the reality of the music business and life in the limelight.

All the actors deliver impressive performances. Connie Britton and Hayden Panettiere are absolutely convincing in their roles and get to the heart of their characters' emotions. The supporting cast also contribute to the quality of the series, adding depth and credibility to the various storylines.

It's amazing how much talent the producers have been able to attract to a series.

I believe that this show, with its breath of fresh air, has given country music a revival.

--------------- Conclusion: This series is a real gem, unique and magnificent.

"Killing Eve" could be a classic spy drama that surprisingly uncovers an intricate and far-reaching conspiracy. But it is much more than that. Thriller, character study and entertainment at its best with British black dry humor without being silly but keeping the necessary seriousness.

The focus is on the two main characters, Eve and Villanelle, who at first glance could not be more different. Eve, played by Sandra Oh, leads an orderly, down-to-earth life. She is a bored slob at MI5 who is stuck behind her desk and is really hooked on the search for a serial killer. She craves the challenge of finding a worthy opponent and breaking out of the daily grind. She wants to feel the rush of adrenaline again. Sandra Oh embodies her character superbly. But it is also one of her strengths and in many moments it reminded me of "Grey's Anatomy". She was absolutely right in her role, but unfortunately didn't show a surprisingly different side of herself. She almost always has the same surprised, annoyed, almost astonished expression on her face. Her dogged character and her development were therefore not as extraordinary as those of Villanelle, played by the magnificent Jodie Comer. Her facial expressions and gestures are simply magnificent.

You could write pages and pages of praise for Villanelle, or rather Jodie Comer. She is the one who gives the series its soul. It is she who is so surprisingly and refreshingly captivating as the playful, psychopathic killer Villanelle. She carries out her assignments ruthlessly with a self-confidence that is second to none and matches her extravagant nature. She manages to be simultaneously frightening and disturbing, yet amusing and endearing at the same time - this is great entertainment. Her character is wonderfully quirky and absolutely fascinating. It's wonderful to watch her do her job so well. Along the way, she enjoys the perks of being one of the best and feels downright unassailable, even when things don't go to plan. Jodie Comer develops an incredible presence in front of the camera, which is so impressive that one would also grant her a Golden Globe. Because "Killing Eve" lives above all through this extraordinary character, who you take to your heart despite her actions.

However, you shouldn't expect realism in this series. People can be murdered far too often without it being noticed or the police being called. Some of Eve's "combat interludes" are also not particularly worthy of MI5. In the end, even "the Twelve" are just a subplot in the story.

Overall, the series remains fast-paced and exciting over the four seasons. Villanelle's many different, unusual, extravagant costumes are not necessarily beautiful but are definitely eye-catching. The different filming locations also offer a good variety. From well-known metropolises to spots at the end of the world. The music was always appropriate and sometimes very beautiful. Unfortunately, the ending is very disappointing and leaves a bitter aftertaste.

----- Conclusion:

Excellent - "Killing Eve" delights with its quirky humor and with Jodie Comer's outstanding performance as the playful, psychopathic killer Villanelle. With tongue-in-cheek dialog and a charm all of its own, "Killing Eve" is refreshing, fascinating and provides perfect entertainment with an ending that unfortunately disappoints. Nevertheless, this series was a very positive surprise. Sue absolutely deserves all the award nominations she has received.

Even though "Steve Jobs" is a biopic, one should not expect an exact biography. A creative self-interpretation of the biography was chosen here. The story, which follows an unconventional but fascinating three-act structure, is divided into three major product presentations by its hero, each in front of a large audience, in 1984, 1988 and 1998. However, the focus is not on the new innovations, such as the first Mac computer, the Next Cube, or then the first iMac, which Jobs presents in his speeches. Instead, the viewer is taken backstage. In camera movements that are as nervous as they are elegant, director Boyle shows a man who is constantly on the move; a frenzied man who jostles his companions. Screenwriter Aaron Sorkin presents the viewer with a completely messed-up character. We learn almost nothing about his life or who he was, other than what we learn from his interactions with his daughter, his assistant Joanna and Steve Wozniack. The central theme is Jobs' relationship with his daughter Lisa, whose fatherhood he refused to come to terms with for years. Surely there could have been more complexity for a perfectionist who was very difficult to work with. Although much is left out, it is still surprisingly effective.

Aaron Sorkin has delivered a great screenplay. The dialog he writes and the wonderful pacing make the two hour running time fly by. The story moves at an energetic pace and is carried by the intensity of the characters. Another strength of the movie is the performance of the great cast. There are intense and powerful moments. Fassbender may not look like Steve Jobs, but he's still great and has an incredibly captivating appearance. He embodies his hero at the beginning as an emotionless robot, slightly hunchbacked, with thin lips and an ever-so-slightly wandering autistic look, as befits a shaggy-haired nerd. Later as a cool businessman and finally as a starving obsessive who slowly becomes a human being after all. Fassbender's performance is on point and he delivers the wonderfully written dialog in a convincing manner. (Not without reason was he nominated for Best Actor in a Leading Role at the Oscars) Jobs' assistant, Joanna, played magnificently by Kate Winslet with cold eyes and a surprising toughness, acts as his conscience, his anchor. And Seth Rogan as Steve Wozniak was simply on a par with his colleagues.

All in all, director Boyle has followed Steve Job's maxim - that design is everything - and turned it all into a movie. It is a work of art in itself made up of razor-sharp dialog, editing and acting. The music is both restrained and lively when it is used. Even the time shift between the present and the different pasts between John Sculley and Jobs is masterfully done.

Emotionally, the movie surprised and also touched me. For me, this movie is the most human portrayal of Jobs that I have ever seen. Because even though some of it is fictional and may never have happened, it sounds exactly like something Steve Jobs would have done or said and at the end you have the feeling that you have seen something behind the scenes. With the conclusion that nobody is perfect.

"What you do is not the best thing about you. If you're a father, that should be the best part of you."

--------------- Conclusion: Worth seeing - It's thought-provoking, fascinating, intelligent and fast-paced, with plenty of wit, intensity and biting interludes. Steve Jobs was a fascinating, if complex, man, so a movie based on him would always pique my interest.

"The Night Of" is a successful social thriller that deals with the prejudices against Arab and Muslim people. The series shows how helplessly the protagonist "Naz" is at the mercy of his fate and how strongly the decisions of lawyers, judges and the police affect his life.

You shouldn't expect any action. The story is told slowly and calmly and you quickly feel the powerlessness that the naive Naz feels. Riz Ahmed is brilliant as Naz, from the first scene to the last. A nice young man from next door, with big doe eyes, a slight build and from a good home. Riz Ahmed believably embodies every aspect of his character and the change he undergoes over time is impressively realized and harrowing. You wouldn't recognize him from the beginning to the end.

You empathize with him the whole time and wonder feverishly what happened on the decisive night. This tension lasts until the very end.

What seems to be quite clear turns out to be different than expected. Nothing is as it seems.

The only certainty is that people also make mistakes and are sometimes no longer aware of the consequences of their decisions. "The Night Of" quickly makes it clear that justice sometimes plays no role in the judicial system. Not many people are interested in the truth, prejudices are made too quickly. The viewer becomes part of the jury and is forced to reflect on their own prejudices. An Arab, a Muslim, that must be the murderer. In many people's minds, the evidence is already complete with one glance at the color of the skin.

John Turturro's performance is also great as a good-natured defense lawyer who always handles his cases according to the rules. He struggles with himself, his case and his eczema/psoriasis in such an excellent way that he has earned our sympathy. We often had to laugh and this humor did the series good and provided a good balance.

Richard Price as screenwriter and director Steven Zaillian have found a good pace. They have succeeded in telling a story that is not new in a captivating, touching and entertaining way. Whether Naz's behavior is "illogical" at one point or another doesn't matter to me, because the series is about a prejudiced system, how it can suddenly suck you in, make you a helpless pawn until it spits you out again.

The camera work was great and was convincing with well thought-out and successful images. The whole interplay, including editing and music, creates a gripping atmosphere. A drama that is touching because it feels so real, but doesn't become too heavy and keeps the tension until the end.

----- Conclusion:

Excellent - great actors, a story that is not new but is told in an outstanding way. It is not without reason that there were many awards for acting, editing and cinematography. Including five Emmy Awards.

"The Chalk Line" is a special thriller that makes use of different genres and has its very own narrative rhythm. In the Spanish film industry, the name Álex de la Iglesia is synonymous with disturbing and controversial cinema. Although he "only" produced the thriller "The Chalk Line" and left the direction to his compatriot Ignacio Tatay, this film is also like a punch in the gut with its subject matter and ever-increasing tension. The fact that the film about a traumatized child is loosely based on a true story lends it an even more oppressive note.

A couple are driving alone on a road when a distraught little child in pyjamas runs towards them. So they take off and look for help... there's a tension right from the start where you don't know where the journey is going. You know too many psycho-horror scenarios to imagine a range of possibilities.

At the hospital, it turns out that the little girl is in a poor state of health. As she does not speak and has behavioral problems, the hospital staff are unable to cope with the 6-year-old, so they sedate and restrain her. The couple, Paula and Simón are interested in the child and visit her regularly. Their interest is not entirely unfounded, as they have been struggling for years with an unfulfilled desire to have children. Paula is all the more delighted when the doctor gives them the opportunity to take the girl, who responds to the name Clara, home with them temporarily to help them find the parents with the trust they have built up in the child.

"The Chalk Line" is a slow and quiet film that focuses on the traumatized psyche of the child, as well as the cautious rapprochement and relationship between Clara and Paula. Many questions are raised in the process. Is the child the evil one? Has something bad happened? If so, what ...

But it also delves deeper into the sad fate of the couple, the strain that a marriage is exposed to when the desire to have children is unfulfilled. The emotions that the couple go through are authentically conveyed by the actors and the child manages to portray a creepy character and a needy victim at the same time.

So the movie resembles a drama in the first two thirds. However, thanks to an outstanding acting performance by little Clara, played by Eva Tennear, it is captivating. Visually, it's a standard look for modern-day thrillers in the popular dark blue tint at a good level. The atmosphere is gloomy throughout.

It never gets boring, as there is a constant tension in the air that makes you very attentive and keeps you guessing for a long time. The whole thing is also supported by the music which repeatedly creates moments of unease.

The story is full of twists and turns and the pieces of the puzzle only come together slowly. Patience is rewarded in the end. Because the story picks up speed in the last third and shows its exciting thriller side. This part kept me riveted and biting my nails. Its surprises and twists kept me on the edge of my seat until the very last minute. In the end, the "finale" was so exciting that I almost had to cover my eyes because I didn't want to see what I suspected.

---------------- Conclusion:

Excellent - An interesting genre mix that interweaves drama and thriller very well and is also emotionally moving. There is so much guilt/innocence here that it is a real pleasure to watch this movie, peppered with twists, it is a well-rounded and successful thriller story in which you are on the edge of your seat until the last minute and wish for a good outcome.

"Halo" wants to be understood as an independent narrative. Since I haven't played the game and am therefore unbiased, it worked. You get a decently made action series with special effects from the Pixomondo masters (e.g. House of Dragon, Game of Thrones) and a good man vs. Evil aliens storyline.

It may start a little slow for some as the world and characters are built up, but as I was unfamiliar with the content of the game, it was quite helpful. There's also a big battle in the first few minutes where the divisions get to show what they've got.

The decision to show that there is a flesh and blood person behind the helmet, how John thinks and feels, how vulnerable he is when he's not behind his armor, how broken a person he is, that's one of the strengths of the series. It makes the character emotionally accessible. Lead actor Pablo Schreiber as John fills this role perfectly. Many of the characters have depth that gradually unfolds. It is a pleasure to see how the divisions develop, which were only seen as mere machines and denied any independent feelings and thoughts. How the team spirit overrides the chain of command. There are several storylines in this series, all of which intertwine. Everything remains in flux and you always have to sort out who has bad and who has good intentions.

The second major strength of the series is the high production quality. Almost everything is just right here. (Except for tiny details that you can overlook and that don't bother you) The visual power is incredible. The dense atmosphere that is created draws the viewer deeper and deeper into the vastness of space. David Wiener knows how to build up tension, e.g. In dark, gloomy and narrow places - with the enemy breathing down your neck. The camera delivers high-gloss images and seems to be inspired by the video game style; for example, there are also shots from the perspective of the Master Chief - a clear homage to the first-person shooter look of the game. In short: after watching the "Halo" series, you'll want to play the game. Because the setting, the equipment, the armor, weapons, spaceships and the various "worlds" have also been worked out with so much attention to detail that it makes a sci-fi heart beat faster. The battles are fast-paced and fast-moving. Together with all the CGI, this is impressive. "Halo" at an extremely high level.

If you always stick exactly to the source material, whether books or games, you will always be disappointed and should always stick to the "original". You should always be open to changes and see it as a modified story, then you can usually enjoy it. This is a sci-fi series for a broad audience and not just a cinematic summary as pure "fan service".

-------------- Conclusion: Outstanding - The story is well written, the acting is good and there is plenty of quality action and drama. We enjoyed the series from start to finish and couldn't stop watching. We are very much hoping for a sequel.

As is so typical of the time, it is up to the men to work for the police and go on the hunt for murderers. In the eyes of her mother and society, the well-heeled Marina should, according to the cliché, only be concerned with good looks, manners and a future husband. But Marina wears her heart on her sleeve and her temperament gets her into trouble here and there. She particularly dislikes the fact that a woman is not allowed to work as a policewoman at this time. Her father encouraged her to use her talents and intelligence as a little girl to train her to be a good "policewoman" by passing on his knowledge as a very successful policeman.

When several prostitutes are found murdered and the police are in the dark, Marina throws herself into her own investigation, much to her mother's annoyance. She is interested in the latest technology and science, educates herself "secretly" and enjoys using these resources. She is supported by her loyal butler Hector (Jean Reno).

This series thrives on its consistent charm. Although it is a Spanish production, it could easily pass for a French one. Jean Reno is entertaining as Hector, who is more friend than servant and is also very good at keeping a low profile.

Aura Garrido embodies her character in an enchanting and very convincing way, with a lot of temperament and a beautiful style of dress. The make-up and costume department have done a great job here. But also the entire setting, the equipment with gorgeous cars and the always appropriate locations at the time. It all goes hand in hand and complements each other to create an all-round convincing 1940s look. The camera captures all of this with high-gloss images. A very nice artistic film style, the lighting together with a suitable, lively and beautiful music, makes the series worth seeing. The fast-paced plot with the necessary action towards the end provides entertainment. A Private Affair takes you on a rollercoaster ride of fun and mystery.

I don't know if a second season was ever planned, but you can live with the end of the series. The "case" is closed.

--------------- Conclusion:

Worth seeing - A beautiful production with a bit of everything, exciting, humorous, romantic, stylish with an enchanting leading actress and an as always worth seeing Jean Reno.

Actually, the movie doesn't do much wrong and yet it couldn't pick me up. Perhaps it's simply due to the already hackneyed story, which has nothing to offer in terms of surprises or twists. There were also no shock or scare moments.

The actors are a big plus point. I love Anthony Hopkins and it was "only" because of him that I watched the movie. I wasn't disappointed by him either. He is simply outstanding in everything he does. I particularly liked him towards the end of the movie, where the effects and make-up were also very good. Unfortunately, it was a long way to get there, and in the almost two hours, everything happens the way it has to. A young man decides to train as a priest for reasons that are sometimes incomprehensible. He also doubts for a long time while he accompanies Father Lucas during his exorcism rituals. The effects during these "treatments" were rather average. The atmosphere, the look is dark and fits the story. Overall, however, it was just too little for me to be gripped by suspense.

--------------- Conclusion: Uninteresting - nothing memorable and with the terrific Anthony Hopkins there are far better movies.

"The Chemistry of Death" is a film adaptation of Simon Beckett's bestsellers. The first two novels have been incorporated into the six-part series. So you shouldn't expect the depth of the novels in the series. However, those who are able to steer clear of this will be entertained at a fast pace.

Basically, there is nothing on offer here that has not already been seen in one form or another in other British crime series. From the investigator who is tormented by private demons to the village with pubs that are getting on in years and where everyone knows everyone else, surrounded by dense forests. And yet the series was still convincing. It does a lot of things right. Starting with an enchanting, melancholy, gentle intro song. "Mogli - AFTERMATH" had to be bought straight away. The locations are beautiful, from rural England to the Outer Hebrides of Scotland. One of the strengths here is the cinematography. And it's not just the landscapes, but the way it captures the characters, the scene, the environment the characters are in, the mood and the atmosphere that immerses the viewer.

Time is taken to explore the broken side of the protagonist, a forensic pathologist. There are repeated flashbacks to his past. These run throughout the episodes and could have been fewer. His trauma is a crucial element of the character. Harry Treadaway embodies his fragile, sometimes weak character very convincingly.

The entire cast is wonderful and lends excellent credibility to the storylines.

The story is gripping, mysterious and dark. The voice-over, in a calm, gentle voice, gets under your skin. The brisk pace in particular does not allow for long stretches and maintains the menace right to the end. The story convinces with new twists and turns and remains unpredictable until the very last moment. - Especially the ending, where you should definitely watch the credits!

--------------- Conclusion:

Worth watching - a stylish and atmospheric series that entertained me with its pace better than many a traditional British crime thriller.

"Monsieur Claude and his big party" is the third part of Monsieur Claude and his family. Philippe de Chauveron once again directs and Guy Laurent provides the screenplay. The culture clash comedy provides an insight into the everyday lives of families, the small conflicts that arise from family and neighborly closeness and the challenges that a big family celebration brings with it.

France's star comedian Christian Clavier embodies the bourgeoisie in his usual excellent role. Outwardly well-behaved and suave, but on the inside narrow-minded and full of prejudices. But still endearing at the same time. But the sons-in-law and their families are also delicious. Pascal N'Zonzi as André Koffi is particularly delightful in his role.

The script and staging tend to exaggerate the characters and provide plenty of situation comedy in the many mini-dramas that take place during the course of the plot. The film plays with foibles, deep-seated prejudices and makes it clear that thinking in racial categories is not the privilege of white people.

This black comedy does not shy away from political incorrectness and is presented with a light-footedness that makes it a pleasure to watch and laugh at. A sympathetic appeal for international understanding. You can feel the love for the family and it is love that always helps to fulfill family obligations and make compromises.

At the end, the movie leaves you with a warm, comforting feeling.

------------- Conclusion: Outstanding - The chaos is perfect again and the happy ending is also guaranteed.

A déjà vu effect cannot be denied. You get what you expect. We love it.

This film biography based on the life of Marcel Marceau is about the most important mime of all time and probably the most famous in the world. He joined the Jewish resistance group "Résistance" in France to save thousands of orphans.

At the beginning, General Patton, played by Ed Harris, introduces the mime Marceau to the allied troops after the liberation of France. At the end of the movie, Marceau reflects his war experiences in his mime show. In a flashback, the film recounts the early life of Marceau, who is played by Jesse Eisenberg. His acting performance was completely convincing, he was consistently nuanced and convincing and believable in his role. I have seen the German dubbing and can't comment on Jesse Eisenberg's original accent. I'm also not a mime expert and can't say anything negative about this interpretation of moving. The focus of the film is not on the pantomime technique, this is not the main focus here but serves as a means to an end, to put a smile on the faces of traumatized children and to take away some of their fear. It is therefore not important to me whether this performance is perfect.

Marceau, who was inspired by Chaplin, initially ekes out a living with small gigs and a job in his father's butcher's shop (Karl Markovics). His art is actually the most important thing to him, much to his father's annoyance. It's nice that the little interpersonal offshoot of father and son continues to be told in the background. Karl Markovics is also always a pleasure to watch.

Marceau wants to join the group, but not just because he wants to impress a girl (Clémence Poésy), but also because he realizes that he has genuine compassion for these homeless and often parentless children. He can make them laugh, but with his physical agility he can also teach them useful tricks, such as climbing and hiding in trees. There are some touching moments between Marcel and the children, as well as some acts of pure courage from all involved. The movie shines with a great performance from Clémence Poésy but also from Matthias Schweighöfer as Klaus Barbie, the head of the Gestapo in France (and known as "The Butcher of Lyon"). Through his actions and sadistic tendencies, the brutality of war becomes clear, which was particularly hard to bear at times in the hotel scenes.

The moments of pure horror are well presented, but never overly graphic. You can feel the stress of the resistance struggling to get the children to safety and the pain of tragic loss.

The direction is reliable - the pacing is good and the tension becomes more gripping as the story progresses. It's a harrowing alternation between the humanity of Marcel and the cruelty of Klaus Barbie. The soundtrack was great and always fitting.

The movie completely picked us up, we empathized, trembled, smiled and even shed a few tears at the end. We were touched by the courage, tenacity and love that can be felt in the movie.

----- Conclusion:

Excellent - Filmmaker Jakubowicz has delivered a fascinating story of heroism and courage. This is another story that deserves to be remembered. " Résistance" is definitely worth seeing.

The film tells the impressive story of the American long-distance swimmer Diana Nyad. Her name, Nyad, means "water nymph" in Greek and this is to characterize her throughout her life. At the beginning, you are given some information about the athlete's achievements to date. This is accompanied by original footage, so that everything has a documentary feel and the viewer gets a closer picture of Nyad.

"Nyad" is dedicated to two themes, the first being the project to swim from Cuba to Florida. A distance of 103 miles, with a swimming time of approx. 53 hours. Secondly, the great friendship between two women, without whom it would have been impossible to realize the project. Bonnie, played by Jodie Foster, is the best friend and coach of Nyad, played by Annette Bening. They have been friends for thirty years and share everything. This includes the worries of growing old together and the worries about each other's death. But also the important question that goes through Nyad's mind on her 60th birthday: "What do you want to do with your only wild life?" A question that is not so easy to answer at this age.

And one thing quickly becomes clear: the movie has two messages. "Never give up." - and "You're never too old to fulfill your dreams." Sports physicians and potential experts consider Nyad's plan impossible, but despite all opinions, she fights her way closer and closer to her goal with impressive willpower. But team spirit, friendship and making peace with the past also play a role.

The camera is always close to the action and captures the images beautifully. Even in the water, so that you can feel the hardships Nyad goes through for yourself. You can see the passion of the two directors Jimmy Chin and Chai Vasarhelyi for this project. A true story with great little messages - excellently realized.

The film's greatest strengths are its two leading actresses, Jodie Foster and Annette Bening. The relationship between Diana Nyad and Bonnie Stoll is captivating. Nyad is an extraordinary person, but not an easy character either. She doesn't make it easy for her friend or anyone on the crew. But Bonnie feels so much love and gives her friend the fullest support in all situations. Jodie Foster's portrayal of Bonnie Stoll is fierce, strong and heartfelt. Annette Bening trained for over a year so there was no need for a "swimming double", but it is also the emotional depth, passion and sheer determination of soul that Bening brings to the character that is the true character. It is a real pleasure to watch these two women. Both show courage in the naturalness of age, almost a little courage in ugliness as far as Bening is concerned when her lips and eyes are swollen from salt water. Bening has captured this character wonderfully. The acting from both of them was just great and was able to take us on an impressive journey right to the end. Framed by original footage at the beginning and end.

-------- Conclusion:

Excellent - a fascinating and motivating story that it is never too late to fulfill your dreams.

I didn't really have any great expectations of the series, I stumbled across it by chance and wanted something light. And that's what it was. The fact that the five friends know each other from a group therapy session is only roughly touched on. The main focus is on the here and now and they are all in their mid/late twenties.

The humor is quite dry, which I liked. The actors do their job well and are all very likeable. The affectionate way they treat each other in particular makes you want to get your own friends together. However, you can't expect any innovative ideas here, everything seems familiar and has been told a hundred times before. It's a shame that the main thematic focus is on the characters' sex lives and that other topics are neglected. Above all, it's annoying that when heterosexual couples do appear, they are hackneyed, bland, boring and only engage in activities for reproductive reasons. It could have been expanded, but Amazon has probably decided not to continue the series.

---------------- Conclusion:

Quite good - I was entertained by the humor and the likeable actors create a feel-good atmosphere.

This movie was a real and great surprise for us. We rarely watch English movies with subtitles. Fortunately, we made an exception here, because the English is easy to understand, so we hardly needed the subtitles at all.

It should also be mentioned that the movie is not dominated by "chatter" (which was very pleasant), and the dialog doesn't matter here either. Because this movie lives from its great main actors, the young Aoy (Chutimon Chuengcharoensukying) and the well-known star chef Chef Paul (Nopachai) succeed in bringing an exciting, interesting and also emotionally moving social drama to the screen, which focuses on the gourmet culture and holds up a mirror to us in an absolutely accurate way.

"The poor eat to end their hunger. But when you have more than enough to eat, your hunger doesn't end"...

We were particularly impressed by the outstanding beauty shots and image design. The only term that comes to mind here is "food porn".

(We worked up such an appetite that we went to our favorite Italian restaurant that very evening)

The story is told very calmly and somewhat slowly, but thanks to the great production and the convincing Aoy, there's never a dull moment; you either revel in the images with a puddle on your tongue or you're curious to see what happens next, because the suspense lasts until the end. So the movie was over quicker than expected.

What I found most fitting was the sentence: "Is it expensive because it's special, or is it special because it's expensive?"

If this "delicacy" had been with German dubbing, I wouldn't have been able to resist giving it one more point.

------------- Conclusion: Excellent.

Britannia is a fantasy historical series set in 43 AD that follows the Roman Imperial Army determined to take over Britannia, which is ruled by some warrior women and the creepy druids who can channel the powers of the underworld.

Britannia does not aim to be factually correct or historically accurate, nor does it claim to be a true story.

It is a tongue-in-cheek excursion through Celtic Britain. It is about a fantasy world with a historical background, but the focus is on magic, gods and devils. You could even say that "Britannia" focuses on controlled madness.

To believe that any kind of historical accuracy was sought here is absurd. It was an entertaining exploration of possible historical events. So you shouldn't concern yourself with "historical accuracy", just sit back and enjoy the ride. It's a combination of fantasy, very good entertainment, really good fun and a lot of blood.

The fact that not everything is taken so seriously here is evident right from the start with the cool opening music, songs like Donovan's "Season of the Witch", "Hurdy Gurdy Man" or T. Rex's "Children of the Revolution" set the mood and give an idea that a different path is being taken here to tell a story with a historical background. The music was terrific and left me with catchy tunes.

They have also opted for a modern colloquial language with an absolutely refreshing effect. With the side effect that humor finds its way into the dialogue and made us laugh very often.

There is a lot of action in Britannia and the Roman general in Britain is particularly cruel and cunning. I found all the characters unique and engaging, both the good guys and the bad guys. The entire cast was still unknown to me, but everyone was excellent in their roles. The banter is really great between Divis (Nikolaj Lie Kaas) and Cait (Eleanor Worthington Cox) both from the dialog and the body language of both characters. Absolutely great. But also Phelan (Julian Rhind-Tutt) with his dry manner was to kneel down. It was great to see the detailed character development of the different characters. Sometimes moving and emotional, sometimes cruel and then hilarious. Mackenzie Cook is tremendous and very impressive in the role of the head druid Veran. Full of bone and craziness, he looks frighteningly scrawny throughout.

Of course, great praise also goes to the costume and make-up department, who did a fantastic job creating a great atmosphere in collaboration with the camera and conjuring up breathtaking images time and time again. In perfect interplay with the score, the setting, the great backdrops with fantastic landscapes. The mysterious significance of the druids in Celtic culture, as well as the shamanic pagan magic, is captured in an exciting and captivating way. A great production that feels like it had a big budget behind it. A script that leaves you wanting more. The story is very fast-paced, can be quite humorous at times and is quite bloody!

The show maintains its craziness, you're never quite sure what's going to happen/who's going to see the next dawn, and new characters join in and drive the story forward, while the craziness is definitely maintained.

This isn't GoT or The Last Kingdom, nor should you expect it to be, but it's a compelling series for fans of this type of genre who are open to creative imaginative interpretations.

Unfortunately, it must also be mentioned that there would still be enough to tell to fill a 4th season. But unfortunately it won't happen. I was quite disappointed and would have loved a sequel.

------------- Conclusion: Excellent - exciting, brilliantly filmed and directed. Great characters, great locations, a crazy story, a great and unusual series that should never be taken seriously. It's fantasy set against the backdrop of "real" history.

Set in 1943, when the Nazis occupy Rome, "Freaks Out" draws the viewer into a circus performance at the beginning, where the protagonists offer a first glimpse of their talents. The albino Cencio, wolf-man Fulvio (reminiscent of Chewbacca), clown Mario and the electrifying Matilde are the attractions of a traveling circus. Matilde's performance at the latest draws you into the wonderful magical world in which nothing seems impossible and keeps you glued to your seat. It is clear from the first ten minutes that this is going to be a wonderfully staged journey with a dreamlike soundtrack. But there is not much time for dreaming, because you are abruptly torn from this magical world by the brutality of war. In "Freaks Out", bizarre comic moments meet ruthlessly brutal war violence.

On the journey of the "fantastic four", you experience an adventure in which anything seems possible. There are always moments that amaze, surprise, enchant or amuse with bitterly wicked humor. There are no limits to the imagination of author Nicola Guaglianone and director, producer and screenwriter Gabriele Mainetti. Mainetti was also involved in the soundtrack and you can tell. For me, this is one of the film's greatest strengths, because you notice in every scene, in every minute of the 2 hour 21 minute running time, that everything is coordinated down to the smallest detail.

The core of the story is quite clear and familiar from many films: the group is split up and one member has to save the rest. Inexperienced heroes who first have to learn how to deal with their abilities. Among these, Matilde is given a special role, because she also stands for the good, who can't bring herself to do something bad or use her powers, otherwise someone could get hurt. Matilde is the counterpart to the six-fingered Nazi Franz, who is embodied absolutely fantastically by Franz Rogowski with an energy that left a strong impression. He makes his character vacillate between broken, consumed by ambition and ultra dangerous.

Basically, all the actors deliver a great performance, drawing the audience into an atmospherically dense, beautifully staged, grotesque and bizarre world with their characterization. The really wicked humor runs through the film again and again and is also present in the dialogues, the action is powerful and the effects are very good. But there are also touching emotional moments.

A big compliment goes to the picture and sound design. It is dark, captivating but also magical and enchanting. The camera captures intoxicatingly beautiful images, which are all thought through down to the smallest detail. The lighting is perfect. The coloring is rich in contrast and dark. The setting, the equipment, the stage design is opulent and coordinated with the scenes down to the smallest detail. (Note the "Magic Cube" or the shape of the confetti). But the almost perfect coordination of the music matches the images perfectly. Mainetti also ensures that each main character is given an instrumental touch. From graceful, enchanting, fairytale-like, to the build-up of tension in fights. And the piano instrumental version of the Radiohead song "Creep" is particularly great - a soundtrack I want to buy immediately.

This film took me into an incredibly imaginative and intense world, into which I dived with the eyes of a child and sat captivated in my armchair for 2 hours and 21 minutes, not noticing how time passed. For me a little gem, you can feel the Italian "AMORE" that was put into this project.

------------- Conclusion:

Outstanding - A fabulous "X-Men" variation that makes merciless use of various genres. Its brilliant image and sound design leaves an impression in my heart and remains in my memory. - A recommendation for anyone who finds the current superhero films too slick and too repetitive.

The synopsis sounded promising. "The Creator" endeavors to combine science fiction and action with the ethical issues surrounding artificial intelligence. Unfortunately, the film concentrates too much on the big-budget, visually stunning CGI extravaganza and loses focus on the story. Unfortunately, it doesn't go into the depths it wanted to explore. It gives the impression that it was written by an AI. This is because the plot seems formulaic, with some lengths and very predictable.

Some holes in the logic bothered me a little, especially as the movie tries to be realistic or credible. This is particularly noticeable in the elaborate imagery, which was also shot in real locations to give the film a down-to-earth feel, which is also very successful and enhances the film. A plus point for the film are the special effects and the great production design, which sometimes make for breathtaking images. The popular narrative structure of jumping into the past every now and then didn't work for me in terms of timing. It rather took me out of the moment. Towards the end, "The Creator" relies particularly on very emotionally charged scenes, which are too deliberately tear-jerking. The acting of all the actors was solid and good, but in the end they were unable to leave a lasting impression.

Although some things were done right, the movie couldn't pick me up.

--------------- Conclusion:

Weak - formulaic story with no depth. The movie could have been so much more, but unfortunately it didn't live up to its potential.

Director Yann Demange creates a dark film noir, the setting, the look and the cool music are convincing across the board. Matthew McConaughey does an excellent job as an actor. Far from "nice", he plays a single father who illegally sells weapons to keep himself and his two children afloat.

The true story is simply violent, which makes you scratch your head that the FBI of all people would use a 14-year-old as an informant and put him in a dangerous and criminal environment. Especially that the FBI asks him to deal and tells him what to do. (For better "credibility") to then deny all responsibility. OMG...

Where it fails is in creating characters that can captivate the audience the way the great noir antiheroes did.

Unfortunately the movie, failed to ignite, despite the story giving a lot away, we only scratch the surface of the characters and don't delve any deeper. We only get a glimpse of everything: at first the boy has nothing to do with it, then he's straight into it and after a small climax, the end is already here. The protagonist doesn't show enough emotional depth, so that he doesn't inspire and the suspense suffers as a result.

-------------- Conclusion: Quite good - was ok - but could have been realized better - too bad.

The story of the Snowpiercer is set against a backdrop where the world is buried under ice and life below minus 100 degrees is impossible. A train with plus-minus 1,000 carriages and around 7,000 people, who are probably the last in the world. Only this train, which has been traveling non-stop around the world for seven years, guarantees their survival.

A small world of its own, created by people on a single train. And how should it be when humans rule - even among the last survivors there is oppression and class society.

This is also the central theme of the series. There is a four-class society. The stark contrasts between them reflect the enormous differences in wealth in our society today. The lowest class is called the tail and if you are the "last", you live crammed into wagons without windows, without adequate health care, are always hungry, treated like garbage and always mercilessly oppressed. In contrast, at the top are the elite, the rich, who live at the expense of the "lower" and have a good time. But always with the fear of rebellion breathing down their necks. In order to preserve "their order", the elite use very brutal means.

The constant inhumane state of affairs reinforces a revolutionary uprising. This is also where one of the main characters comes into play, Andre Layton, superbly played by Daveed Diggs, becomes the leader and mouthpiece of the "Tailies" (as the 4th class is called). He was a detective in his former life and as he is the only one among all the passengers, he is called to the higher classes for a murder investigation. However, this is only to be seen as a device to move the plot forward. This is not a crime series.

Against a fantastic backdrop, which is realized in so many ways in this train, the character development of various figures plays the actual main role. There is so much love in the decor and scenery of the train, down to the smallest detail, that my heart beat faster. From the gloomy, makeshift tail carriages, to the night carriage reminiscent of the 1940s, to the increasingly opulent first-class carriages. The costumes and make-up also deserve special mention here, as do the effects. Atmospherically incredibly well done. You can perhaps complain a little about the CGI when it comes to the exterior shots and the landscapes. But we didn't mind, because the focus is on the inside of the train.

Above all, the greatest strength of this series is the development of many individual characters. Because alongside the main actors, such as Daveed Diggs and Jennifer Connelly, who also shines in her role as "Melanie Cavill". Her acting is terrific and she always has a poker face, so you never know where you stand with her. In addition, the villain "Wilford" is superbly embodied by Sean Bean. But I especially took "Ruth" (Alison Wright) to my heart, what a rollercoaster of emotions she gave me and in the end she burned herself into my heart forever. You grow closer and closer to so many characters, they are so multi-layered that there is something for everyone and you feel, suffer and rejoice with them. Even the smallest supporting roles (like little Winnie) were absolutely convincing and inspiring.

A perfect blend of high-quality images and a score that always emphasizes the respective situation. The story offers a deep and multi-layered characterization that knows how to inspire. Especially during the last few minutes at the end of the third season, "L. J. Folger" had us in tears.

We devoured the series. It kept us glued to the television from the very first minute. With every new development, every new question, we wanted to know what would happen next. Even though I knew beforehand that "Snowpiercer" probably wouldn't answer all the questions, I'm more than happy that I didn't let that put me off. Because luckily there were no huge cliffhangers to leave you behind. Although I am more than mad at the production company (TNT) for finishing a fourth season - but not airing it to save on taxes and loving to write the project off as a loss. It's a disservice to the fans of the show, as well as the many actors who put their hearts into it.

I haven't seen the 2013 movie myself and therefore have no comparison. But I believe that in a series with 30 episodes of 45 minutes each, a deeper connection and character development can take place than in a movie. The series is also not primarily about the dangers of uncontrolled climate change, but about human society with its strengths and weaknesses.

-------------- Conclusion:

Outstanding - I would never have thought that a series over three seasons that ONLY takes place in one go could be so gripping. Great dystopia / SyFi series that shows the human and social abysses, but also hopeful developments against an opulent backdrop. It is entertaining, exciting and thought-provoking.

"In a Taxi with Madeleine" is unlike any previous film featuring Line Renaud and Dany Boon. This is a melancholy movie of quiet tones that focuses on the memories of a life. These memories mainly relate to Madeleine's younger years, so Line Renaud as Madeleine and Dany Boon as Charles are almost only used in the cab. Anyone expecting an active interplay between the two that dominates the movie will be somewhat disappointed. You shouldn't expect a comedy either, even if the fine, light, subtle French humor does shine through again and again. Humor flashes through.

The story is written with a lot of love, accompanied by perfectly chosen, soft melancholic music from bygone times and the beautifully shot images. You are drawn in and revel with the old lady as she looks out of the window of the moving cab through Paris. The beauty of this city is a plus point. In flashbacks, we glide gently into Madeleine's past in the 1940s and 1950s. It is never distracting, but complements the story. All the actors fulfill their roles excellently.

The acting, screenplay, direction, soundtrack, cinematography and editing merge into a loving movie that takes you on a very emotional journey and touches you deeply, leaving me in tears at the end. The pace could have picked up a little here and there, but it was certainly sufficient. Overall, I would have liked to know a few more details about Madeleine's later life to give the character even more depth.

Considering the age of the Grand Dame Renaud (95 years old), I enjoy every second with her on screen. Together with Dany Boon, the two make a great couple where you can feel their chemistry and loving affection. It's a feast to watch the two of them.

--------------- Conclusion:

Worth watching - The story comes alive through the humorous elements and the tragedy of the human experience. Even if the ending is perhaps a little predictable, it is still a beautiful and moving movie.

The story is not exactly original - a woman with children alone in a house by a lake and in the woods, and right at the beginning a "scary" man who helps with the entrance gate.

The tension and a convincing "scary" atmosphere is built up and you wait for something to happen, but you have to wait until halfway through the movie.

From the second half onwards, unfortunately, the typical "horror" behavior patterns returned, which rather upset or annoyed me. Stupid behavior of pretty "disposable ladies", so that the perpetrator still gets his chance. E.g. When a simple pane of glass prevents you, although you could break it right away, my real horror in movies, my hair stands on end.

With the perpetrator, you get the feeling that the makers weren't sure which direction their villain should take. Whether the unknown evil, or rather motive-driven.

------------ Conclusion: Fair enough - An entertaining home invasion thriller that doesn't quite live up to its potential. I would have liked a better resolution to the motives of the perpetrator, unfortunately it comes across as a bit loveless.

Those who are a little more "squeamish" when it comes to horror films and place more value on atmosphere could also find something to like here without being too disappointed.

I had the nursery rhyme as an earworm for two days :-)

This mini-series has been a refreshing surprise. Set in Brisbane, Australia in 1985, it centers on young Eli Bell (Felix Cameron) who is confronted with all kinds of problems in a dysfunctional family. Based on the biographically tinged novel of the same name by journalist Trent Dalton.

"Boy Swallows Universe" works particularly well because of its characters and the great acting of the entire cast. Of course, Felix Cameron stands out in particular, but also his brother played by Lee Tiger Halley, Simon Baker as the dejected father, Bryan Brown, Travis Fimmel and Phoebe Tonkin. They all do a great job and are convincing in their roles. The setting is typically 80s and the music from that era is also fun.

Overall, it's an interesting mix of dark surreal thriller and family drama. But although there is a lot of pain and grief, there is also a lot of love. Despite drug dealing, domestic violence, child abuse, gangs, mutilations and murders, it never gets heavy handed or unpleasant. This is because the story combines this with hopeful, delightful and funny tones throughout. As if all that wasn't enough, a fantasy component is also added. The success of the series is based on the fact that no genre is overemphasized, but that they all fit together in such a way that they support each other. In the end, all the pieces of the puzzle fit together satisfactorily. Only in the final episode, the thriller twist felt a little rushed.

--------------- Conclusion:

Worth seeing - A family drama told with a lot of heart, which invites you to smile and cheer along in a warm-hearted and light-footed way. An interesting mix of genres that support each other.

Info & Background: The rampage of a maniac who was never caught; the incredible cipher killer who terrified the whole country - America's equivalent of Jack the Ripper. He spoke publicly of 13 victims, later of two dozen more. The police proved that he had committed seven crimes - five of these victims died. How many murders the most legendary serial killer in the USA actually committed will probably never come to light. Based on the tIrue story of a serial killer who kept the San Francisco area in suspense and mocked the authorities in four administrative districts with his ciphers and letters for decades, David Fincher directed the thriller Zodiac - The Trail of the Killer after Seven and Fight Club.

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Opinion:

The whole thing starts with cool music and action. It gets straight to the point. But then the whole thing gets lost in the portrayal of the journalist and the police officer who take on the story. What starts out fast-paced and interesting loses its way in the 2 hours and 37 minutes. Again and again we think we have a lead, and sometimes we do, but it drags on like chewing gum and I wonder what all the positive feedback was about. Because unfortunately I got tired as it went on, plus the time jumps, yes even if it is realistic, I ask myself: do I want to watch such a laborious search?

For me, it's more of a drama, with longer stretches where you watch the actual heroes wear themselves out. Which is sometimes more tiring than exciting. Jake Gyllenhaal embodies the desperation to stay on the case even after years incredibly well.

The ending didn't really satisfy me. Of course, nothing can be done about the real events in this case. But after two and a half hours, I would have liked more and if it had been a series, it would have been torn apart because it had an open ending. That's how different the point of view is. ...

------------- Conclusion: Goes like this - A movie that has a top-class cast and documents over the many years, the search for the perpetrator.

We are in the 1930s and disillusion the "sacred" image of Bonnie and Clyde. This is not about the glitz and glamor of the most famous couple of all time. It's about two actually washed-up warhorses who are brought back to their jobs out of desperation. Kevin Costner delivers in his usual manner, playing the thoughtful loner with a rough exterior, always well aware of what awaits him. Add to that the somewhat tired, drunken Woody Harrelson, who always seems a little more approachable.

It's a fairly quiet story, starting slowly so that you have time to get to know the two main characters better and join them on the somewhat longer hunt for the infamous couple.

Here and there the whole thing is underlaid with subliminal light humor, so that the quiet moments are also bridged. The movie lives from the two main actors, so it's never boring, but you go on the search.

I really liked the last 8 minutes at the end, the original pictures from back then, of Bonnie and Clyde, the car. There were 20,000 people at Bonnie Parker's funeral in Dallas. There were 15,000 at Clyde Barrow's funeral, and the rest of the people involved are also shown with original footage and information about what happened to them.

For us, this is a very interesting movie that tells this story from a completely different perspective.

------------- Conclusion: Worth seeing.