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Reviews
Don't Worry Darling (2022)
Trying so hard to be something special
Copying an abundance of different stylistic approaches and camera angles that were successful for other filmmakers isn't the same as actually being talented and creative enough to come up with them yourself.
This movie tries so hard to impress, but it's lacking depth and soul. Florence Pugh is the only thing that makes this moving interesting and watchable. Acting opposite Harry's in and out accent must have been extremely difficult. The artistic direction was beautiful, but it seems the movie relies too heavily on those two elements.
This movie is an embarrassment to American film, and the worst part is that the people involved are so proud of it.
Where the Crawdads Sing (2022)
Fantasy vs Reality
This movie is stunning in every way. Daisy's performance is absolute perfection. She captures the frailty and strength, exhaustion and determination of Kya so beautifully. She's a beautiful little doe in the comfort of her surroundings but a fierce survivor when she needs to be.
The movie is a fantasy about the laws of nature and justice. The critic's reaction is reality and shows exactly why a book and movie like this are so important. If you need more proof of reality, turn on the news and see the countless number of star athletes getting away with heinous atrocities. Self defence extends beyond a moment of desperation. It extends to a need to survive outside of that imminent danger in a world that is ready to continue the assault. A society that undermines women and/or turns them to villains is not an even playing field.
The Woman in the House Across the Street from the Girl in the Window (2022)
People are missing the point
I'm genuinely blow away by how many people just don't get this. The Woman... genre is completely bizarre, and I'm glad I haven't been the only one wondering why all of the books over the last few years seem to have "the woman" or "the girl" in their titles. Though admittedly I have read all of them. I thoroughly enjoyed this series and can't wait for what looks like a riff on The Woman in Cabin 10 for season 2!!!
A Match Made at Christmas (2021)
Abusive behaviour all around
First, they throw way too many of the generic movie plot points in. It's like a mash up/rip off of several different movies jammed into one.
Second, the male lead is a complete ahole. The look in his eyes when he's telling the old woman off was genuinely chilling. I actually turned it off at that point. I understand he hasn't grown up with love in his life. I understand he has issues. But the real message the movie should have sent is that he needs to deal with those on his own before entering into a serious relationship. Very disturbing that many people see this as ok and think she should be expected to fix him. She deserved better.
Cinderella (2021)
New and fun
If you love the classic so much, then watch that. I love that they modernized it instead of just trying to do the exact same. They have a great cast of vocally-talented people (to everyone saying it's auto tune, familiarize yourself with these stars!), and they did a great job of staying true but also taking a different approach. I love Camilla and am so impressed to see her acting ability!
Huge in France (2019)
I like it, but I liked Episodes more
I feel like it's trying to be Episodes, but it's not as good. I do like it. I very much enjoy and appreciate the idea that Europe and British comedy/style does not translate well to Americans. It's a shame it doesn't, as it's much better.
Fuller House (2016)
Yes but no
It's very hard because they're following the formula but this version is much more shallow. I grew up watching and learning from the original, but this one seems clearly focused on showing DJ in a new light. It seems like instead of overcoming her insecurities, she chose do go all in and prove her hater wrong. The amount of effort she shows to prove her physical state is pathetic. The push ups and the American ninja warrior were just hard to wash. I just wish she could push her message but with actual confidence.
Friends from College: Fireworks (2019)
Do they fix this?
Haven't seen the last episode, but.... They aren't entirely clear about it, but it seems like the show is suggesting they had sex 6 weeks prior. That's not how you date a pregnancy. If she has been been trying to get pregnant for years, she would absolutely understand this. She would also have had an idea of how far along she was since she was trying. Just doesn't make sense, and it's insulting.
Searching (2018)
Don't look it up...just start watching.
I had full body goosebumps non-stop for about 30 minutes. Before that I was fully enthralled by what felt a bit awkward but interesting. The style is pre-COVID "online interaction" and done well. It just works. Not an Oscar winner, but it is fully satisfying and no loose ends. I'm happy to have found this one, and I think for most people, it's well worth a watch.
Emily in Paris (2020)
Cringe
An ignorant American visits the rudest city in the world. If you enjoy cringey tv, this might be for you. I can't figure out if they're intentionally making her incredibly ignorant and annoying, or if they just think it's normal to visit a city and disrespect it by not educating yourself and acting humbly. Either way, it's not enjoyable to watch. I like Lily, and I love Paris so I'm hoping this gets better. I'm just not sure I'll be able to make it through.
The Wedding Year (2019)
It's fine but...
I guess I just expected more from the cast. It's fine but could have been smarter, sweeter, kinder, funnier, etc... Not sure why some of the talent involved didn't speak up and maybe contribute some better ideas. Just fell a bit flat.
How to Get Away with Murder (2014)
Fun and enjoyable
HA! The other reviews make me laugh. The one about Viola's hair just makes me sad. First of all - to the lawyer who rants about how unrealistic this show is, you imply that you think all other shows are realistic. They are not!! Also, implying that anyone who watches this and hasn't gone to law school will think it's real IS arrogant. Secondly, she did not violate confidentiality since the client was clearly aware and OK with involving the students. Now, this show is unrealistic, but fun. The acting is good, and from what I've seen, the plot is laid out well. I am looking forward to seeing more. If you want something that will change your life, maybe take a trip to a third world country or watch an acclaimed documentary. BUT if you are interested in a simple guilty pleasure that has a bit to do with crime, give it a try!