AnonymousFilmLover26's Reviews

The Pod Generation (2023)

7/10

12 September 2023

This one kind of stumped me. I'm a fan of Emilia Clarke, I'm always down to watch any new projects of hers...and yet, something about "The Pod Generation" just seemed a little off to me. It was good enough overall, I didn't hate it. But the execution was so-so. Dialogue seemed clunkily-written and the overall pacing was too slow to fit under the traditional sci-fi genre. In fact, I'd classify this as a 'futuristic drama', more than anything. It has its quirks, but I didn't find it a romantic comedy, either. The repetitive dream sequences were thought-provoking but really went nowhere.

Emilia Clarke gives a solid performance despite her character's lack of backstory and depth. I think maybe that's what it's missing...the plot itself has potential but it never quite lives up to it. Mr. Chiwetel also gives a good performance, but there's no soul to this movie...aside from Emilia Clarke's truly radiant smile.

Just a set of confused parents-to-be, trying to sort out the rules and regulations around an AI-assisted "pregnancy" (via a Pod, hence the title). Alas, it was a great premise. As others had said, it would've made a stellar story for the TV show Black Mirror. (I would award automatic bonus points if Emilia and Chiwetel had still appeared!)

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Babylon (I) (2022)

8/10

A 3 hour epic...but I loved it

12 April 2023

I for one loved this movie. It's outrageous, and crass, and a bit indulgent by the end...but I still really, really liked "Babylon" and it kept my attention. (OK, it also helps that I'm a big Margot Robbie fan!)

Did it need the full 3 hour and 9 minute runtime? Not strictly. "Babylon" tackles a lot at once, but it's mostly coherent. It does go off the rails a bit after Tobey Maguire's drug lord character shows up (no further spoilers), and some intense stuff occurs in "the underground" of Los Angeles...that whole sequence/tangent was off-putting for me, to say the least. But in terms of the film overall, I loved everything from the characters to the plot lines. Margot Robbie shines, and Diego Calva, a relative newcomer, is just as mesmerizing playing opposite her. His character Manny is a film PA who dreams of making it big one day, and more.

The music is a standout as well - and though they weren't favored, Babylon actually did win during awards season for their soundtrack and costuming.

This one isn't for everyone. It's nowhere near as friendly as "Singin' in the Rain" set in the same time period (though it does nod to it), but for those like me who are true movie fans...and also appreciate movies about movie-making, I recommend giving it a try.

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Do Revenge (2022)

8/10

Sure, it's kind of campy but...

5 January 2023

I LOVED this movie, and I would absolutely watch it again. Say what you will about it, (and me by extension) but I think this is one of Netflix's better 'teen' movies of 2022.

Some of the dialogue is very Gen Z and weird, but it's not meant to be anything but fun, with a little side of snarky dark comedy. And it doesn't hurt that Maya Hawke gets a top billing...I'm currently kind of obsessed with her.

The little twists along the way involving Eleanor (Maya Hawke) are fun to watch and keep you interested. The costuming is just zany enough, and there are a few homages to hits like "Clueless" and others, to give some nostalgia.

"Do Revenge" doesn't strike me as a particularly star-making turn for Camila Mendes, however, which is unfortunate considering I'd like to see more of her range outside of 'high school student' in the future. Oh well.

Maya Hawke, meanwhile, is absolutely magnetic. I can't wait to see what she does next.

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Amsterdam (2022)

8/10

Really not as "bad" as I expected...!

4 January 2023

I know this movie did poorly at the box office. Despite all its big names, it flopped upon release last year, to the tune of almost $100 million dollars - pretty much a total loss.

That said, I don't know exactly why "Amsterdam" was so unpopular. (Was it the scandal that David O Russell was embroiled in years back?) I actually really liked it, though I had no idea what to expect from "Amsterdam" going in. The movie isn't exactly fast-paced, but it does contain flashbacks and heavy/important dialogue. There is humor peppered throughout, but it's the quirky, quiet, dry kind so maybe audiences just didn't quite get it?

I'll admit, the plot did lose me a little toward the end, but I mostly found my way back. It kicks off with a dead person, and then another abrupt (non-gory) murder, before Christian Bale's character flashes back to give more context. He is oddly charming as Burt Berendsen, a Park Avenue doctor-turned-reluctant-soldier/veteran who is forced into war at the suggestion of his wife's wealthy family. Burt quickly forms a friendship with a fellow (Black) army member, John David Washington (BlacKkKlansman). Margot Robbie, beautiful and talented as ever, meets these two later as the nurse tending to their extreme battle wounds. I thought all three of the main stars had great chemistry as they try to solve the many layers to the two deaths at the beginning...but Margot Robbie's character flitted in and out of the story a little.

I didn't like this one as much as "Joy", or "American Hustle", but I do still think it's worth a watch. It's a star-studded period piece loosely based on actual events (key word: loosely) and I for one, think it's pretty interesting and fun, despite some political undertones.

Great performances by Christian Bale and John David Washington, and the dynamic between Margot Robbie's Valerie and Anya Taylor-Joy's Libby is truly entertaining.

Keep an eye out for all the stars here, there are a fair amount!

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The Whale (2022)

7/10

Gripping, intense, emotional. Incredible.

4 January 2023

Warning: Spoilers

Wow. I saw "The Whale" in theaters yesterday, and what a ride. It's rumored to be one of Brendan Fraser's best projects to date, and I can see why. The buzz surrounding this one has been great, and it's well deserved, IMO.

The movie is absolutely worth watching. However, it's very intense throughout. Brendan Fraser's character (Charlie) struggles with compulsive eating. As a result, Charlie has gained a tremendous amount of weight over the last few years. When we meet him in his apartment, we quickly learn that he is housebound due to his size, and going downhill. More than that, he has battled obesity for years, and now faces certain death due to untreated congestive heart failure.

That said, the movie is not actually about Charlie's weight. Numbers are never mentioned, though we do see adaptations Charlie is using: a walker, a handle above his bed, etc. It's really about 'the whale' his root problem has ballooned into: compulsive food addiction. Viewers can very obviously see he is a man of size, but Charlie is not concerned with his health. Instead, we see him use food as comfort. When it stops comforting him, he uses it to cause himself more physical and mental pain, going on extreme binges. He is a man full of self-loathing, and on some level, he knows his habits are "disgusting". Yet, Charlie is, sadly, past the point of return.

Having pushed almost everyone in his life away as he put on more weight, Charlie is a lonely and reclusive character. Sadie Sink gives an incredible performance as his daughter, whom he attempts to connect with before his death. (Her breakout character on "Stranger Things" is not my favorite, but I do think she's given one of the most complex character arcs as Max.)

Now. The plot of "The Whale" itself is beautiful. It is raw, and visceral all the way around. Charlie is a very good, intelligent person who has simply given up on himself. I found the movie to have a very somber tone overall, but Charlie is earnest. He intends to help others, and evoke true honesty from them in the process. The last bit of his life journey takes place over the course of a week, and his increasing desperation to just get on with dying, is plain. He wants so badly for his daughter to have a better life, and regrets the fact that he left her, after divorcing her mom. (I won't spoil the plot further.) Charlie hates himself for eating so much, truly HATES what he's become. And in fact, he's eaten himself to this state, so what's two large pizzas for dinner? A package of candy, tortilla chips, donuts...goddammit, why can't he just kill himself with food already???

I try to be an open-minded and reasonable person, especially when it comes to movies. But "The Whale" is really a tough watch, in parts. It's 'just a movie', but it's really so painful to watch Charlie's binges get worse by the week's end...I had to close my eyes and/or look away at times. It's these moments of severe binging that are so intense...I actually found them grotesque and slightly disturbing, honestly. It's unfair, but that's the reason I'm rating as I am.

However, "The Whale" is a stark depiction of addiction, and all the ugliness and struggle that accompany it (really any kind of it).

Did I mention Charlie is an accomplished teacher? Melville's "Moby Dick" plays a meaningful role in this movie, which is very apropos.

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The Backup Dancer (2016)

8/10

Nice indie film!

20 July 2022

I've gotten away from indie movies recently, because some of the big blockbusters have caught my eye more. "Sticky Notes" (AKA "The Backup Dancer" in other regions) is a great film on a budget; and attracts both up-and-coming talent and proven actors. It reminds me, actually, why I like the indie genre so much. Rose Leslie is stunningly gorgeous, and not even a bad dancer, as a sulky 20-something who is called back home when her dad needs her. Ray Liotta plays her funky, good-cop dad with lots of snark.

Anyway, the cast is small, the budget is small...but this movie has heart without getting too sappy. It meanders in places, but it's a slice-of-life film...and 2015/2016 was right when subgenre was taking off, so this one flies under the radar.

Don't miss it.

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The Woman in the House (2022)

8/10

Kind of Veronica Mars-ish...

27 February 2022

I find the comedy aspect of this to fall a little flat. Instead of achieving true dark comedy, certain plot points come off more bizarre than others. But as a lifelong fan of Kristen Bell, I'll give anything she's in a fair chance...something I try to do for all my fave actors and actresses. A passable mystery series, if Veronica Mars was a less capable, grief-stricken, early-middle-aged woman with a drinking problem.

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Kevin Can F**k Himself (2021–2022)

8/10

A woman taking back what she deserves.

23 June 2021

I for one, love this show already. I know it's got corny humor in the sitcom parts, and the laugh track, and the grating Boston accents...

But I can accept all of that because it also features Annie Murphy (you may know her from "Schitt's Creek", as Alexis Rose) - an immensely talented and charming actress - and a fascinating concept at its core. This is NOT Annie Murphy as Alexis Rose 2.0. Her character here is Allison, an undereducated, underemployed middle-class woman who is underappreciated by the people in her life. What happens when she finally wakes up and realizes she deserves better?

The sitcom blended with the dramatic segments kind of threw me at first, even though I know the gist of the show...but I think it's purposeful, to show the kind of chaos Allison's been putting up with. She just pinballs from one place to the next, always the straightwoman to her husband's dirty/shocking jokes. Some reviewers call her a doormat, in fact. If this sounds like tired, recycled misogynistic crap so far, well just hold your horses, 'cause this (fantastic) beast is two-faced.

I would say that "Kevin Can F Himself" is about a woman who is finally over getting "F'ed" every which way by her husband. Kevin is a literal d-bag, and Allison is finally realizing that she doesn't have to take his BS. Annie Murphy nails all the dramatic scenes, (IMO) and proves that she's not "just" a one-trick typecast pony. Something like revenge is brewing, just under the surface...

I happily pledge my heart, loyalty and more importantly, DVR space, to "Kevin Can F Himself" - no shame.

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Above Suspicion (2019)

7/10

Not my usual type of movie...

20 May 2021

"Above Suspicion" wouldn't normally be the type of movie I go for... that said, for what it's worth, I really liked it. Emilia Clarke does a pretty fair-to-good Southern accent, playing a woman in Kentucky. (In fact, you can say what you want about her accent skills, but in my opinion, she at least does better than Sophie Turner doing a Southern accent...) Anyway, the story picks up toward the middle, but I think Clarke is really the standout here. She's surrounded mostly by drugs, guns, schemes, and sleazy abusive men who don't do much of anything except yell at her and beat on her, so that's part of it: her co-stars, outside of Jack Huston as FBI Agent Mark, don't have much to build on. But as this is more of Susan and Mark's story than anything, that doesn't bother me as much.

Will Mark really help Susan out of her dead-end ways? Will she dump her good-for-nothing, trashy ex-husband for real? What will become of her as his "star informant?"

You gotta watch to find out. Based on true events; interesting, chilling, and tragic all at once.

In the end, it helps, too, that I'll follow Emilia Clarke to the ends of the earth...I love her that much.

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Emily in Paris (2020– )

7/10

Not the best, but still...

11 November 2020

Let's get some things straight, here. This show has been in the news recently, getting absolutely bashed every which way, for all sorts of reasons. I have two main things to say to those especially negative critics: 1. While I respect that people have different opinions, the fact remains, "Emily in Paris" is fictional. The character, as basic and stereotypical as she might be, is completely made up.

2. Despite anyone's personal feelings on Lily Collins's talent, this show is not "her fault," and this is a gross oversimplification. Yes she co-produced it, but I'm certain she worked alongside other important crew.

I respect people who are passionate about TV and film; as I'm definitely one of them! But I believe there is a big difference between passion and hate. One is simply mean-spirited and hurtful, and the rise of the internet has made all kinds of hate (and I do mean all kinds!) terribly common.

Bottom line, this show exists as entertainment. It's not a manual for Americans in Paris, it's not representative of every single Parisian resident in the city. It's a light, fluffy show that is intended to entertain. Are some aspects annoying, such as Emily's almost-refusal to learn/speak French? Sure. Her amazing designer wardrobe, even though she's quite literally brand-new to Paris? Maybe. (I'm not much of a fashion girl.)

This is a lighter, tamer "Gossip Girl Goes Abroad" type thing. Are we picking at Serena Van der Woodsen and Blake Lively next, for being a ditzy blonde with substance abuse issues? Wouldn't that characterization hurt the reputation of beautiful blondes everywhere, since substance abuse isn't synonymous with hair color, right? I mean, that's absurd. What about Blair's queen bee, ultra-controlling attitude? Doesn't the original "GG" focus in on the NYC elite? But surely not all NYC students are as sharp and scheming as Blair, in real life...

It's called suspension of disbelief. Most entertainment requires it, but especially the good stuff. Not that "Emily in Paris" (or "GG" for that matter) is an especially hard-hitting show, but you know, most of the time, when I sit down to choose a show, I don't want realism. Documentaries and the like certainly have their place, but on a Saturday night, or a lazy afternoon, maybe I actually want something fun. This year has been difficult enough, after all.

That's what "Emily in Paris" is: a quick, light show one can watch with maybe only half their brain, if they so choose. I personally don't expect a second season here, and I wouldn't be heartbroken if it's a one and done. Lastly, for the record, I do like Lily Collins, both as an actress and a person. :)

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The Politician (2019–2020)

6/10

Maybe an unpopular opinion...

25 June 2020

But I actually like season 2 a little more.

"The Politician" isn't exactly my favorite Ryan Murphy series, but because I like both Ben Platt and Zoey Deutch, it caught my eye. I thought the first season was okay: slick visuals, fast dialogue, an impressive cast, and inclusive/diverse characters...but the actual story didn't grab me as much as I was expecting, and I found the most interesting aspect of the plot to be the side story about Infinity's (Zoey Deutch's) life with her grandma.

Season 2, it appears, is even more sex and politics than before. While it's sometimes pretentious with strange dialogue choices (Alice doesn't really talk like a modern human woman but more like a plastic robot)..."the Politician" makes some timely observations regarding the urgent issue of climate change, as well as activism, and personal authenticity. Pros: Ben Platt, Zoey Deutch, David Cornswet, Bette Midler, Lucy Boynton; fast and clever dialogue!

Cons: can be a bit (too) theatrical/histrionic, sort of hard to follow, not enough Infinity/Zoey Deutch in S2.

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The King of Staten Island (2020)

9/10

Seriously, one of the best I've seen in a long time!

18 June 2020

What is there to say about "King of Staten Island", besides the fact that I found it excellent...? Weird as it may be, it made me want to explore Staten Island, honestly.

Really. I'm only familiar with Pete Davidson through his stint on SNL. So, knowing what I know about his brand of comedy, I was expecting to be entertained; if also a little weirded out. I'm pleased to say, I found this to be even better than I had expected. The trailer paints "Staten Island" as a quirky/sentimental dramedy, which I think is a totally refreshing light for Pete Davidson. He's kind of kooky, foul-mouthed and inappropriate, but he's got heart, and he brings his own personal history to this movie. "King of Staten Island" is R rated, and has that casual indie vibe, but I would've expected a lot more graphic content here, given the fact it's a Judd Apatow project. Instead, we are treated to a good helping of sincerity, and soul: a beautiful surprise.

I fully expect Pete Davidson to book some more major roles now; after this truly affecting gem!

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Inheritance (I) (2020)

8/10

Inheritance...

2 June 2020

"Inheritance" could just as easily be titled "Secrets and Lies". Or, even more aptly, maybe "Secrets, Lies, and Panic Attacks"...

That said, I found it to still be a good movie. I've been tracking it recently, because I can't remember the last time I saw Lily Collins in an action movie; let alone a thriller. Though her character is written rather poorly, she does get to play a young woman with a real law career. This might deter audiences who are used to seeing her in her 'usual' peppy rom-com role, but I think Collins does a great job carrying the movie, along with Simon Pegg who plays the mysterious man locked in the creepy family cellar. All in all, I found it refreshing to see her in little bit of a heavier role.

Now, the writing and direction itself was a little silly: There's a scene involving a mask (that's all I'll say) that had me rolling my eyes. The first act of the movie does meander and the pacing is off. If the twist/climax had taken off just a little earlier on, it would make for a better movie. I'd say a good 80% of the film involves only Lauren (Collins) and Morgan (Pegg) and they really are doing good work. The twist leading up to the conclusion was a nice addition...again, if only they had planted it a little earlier!

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Dead to Me (2019–2022)

10/10

Pure greatness!

15 May 2020

I first discovered "Dead to Me" sometime last year, and promptly made it through all ten season 1 episodes like clockwork. I've been waiting eagerly and patiently for season 2; and I'm so glad it's finally available!

Both Christina Applegate and Linda Cardinelli are wonderful - but I gotta give the extra gold star to Ms. Cardellini. Her character, Judy, is a delight to watch: incredibly warm, kindhearted, and sensitive, and on the flip side, a little unstable. Something about Judy just makes me want to give my whole heart to her every time she is onscreen; no matter what she's going through! And I firmly believe that's all due to Linda Cardellini's performance. I've never seen LC in a mainstream role quite like this, but she's REALLY doing it right - where has she been since "Freaks and Geeks", and the live-action "Scooby Doo"?

I get passionate about a lot of different shows, pretty frequently, but Judy really is a special character, and she's definitely one of my top favorites, here. A great dramedy featuring everything from grief and stereotypical suburbia, to female friendship and murder mysteries. A solid 10!!!

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Survive (2020)

7/10

One of the better Quibi shows

8 May 2020

Warning: Spoilers

I think technically, "Survive" is supposed to be one of the 'movies in chapters', but you get the gist. While some of the logic is silly, (The character of Paul really just trips and falls completely off a cliff?? And why does Jane spend all of six seconds flailing around in the river after she's walked all that way?) it feels pretty fleshed out as a plot line, and pretty cohesive in general, as entertainment. Most of the logic goofs, I can explain away but they do catch one off guard a bit. Sophie Turner is a little bland in spots, but overall, she delivers a solid performance. Corey Hawkins, as Paul, is really good as well. For a total of 12 episodes, "Survive" does seem rushed. They could've easily added two more episodes and then not had the characters jumping from one deadly obstacle to the next; but then, maybe that wouldn't give the right suspenseful feeling. The ending, while a bit cliched, really ties things together well. I think this is one of Quibi's better offerings so far!

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Dummy (2020)

5/10

So weird. Probably a 5.5 for me.

2 May 2020

Not necessarily good weird, either; but cringey-weird. I don't consider myself easily scandalized when it comes to entertainment, but why in the world is Cody's (Anna Kendrick's) boyfriend SO much older than her? Age gaps normally don't bother me all that much: suspension of disbelief, age is just a number, true love, etc. But if there's any real relevant reason behind this painfully obvious 20 year+ age difference, I'm frankly, blind to it. It frankly just makes me embarrassed for AK, if anything. She's only in her early 30's!! It makes no sense to me. I'm not fully on board yet (3 episodes in, 6 to 7 minutes each) but I'll try a few more episodes before I pass on it. AK is her usual sparkling, dryly sarcastic self...but she's definitely the standout. The rest is just... strange. If I continue watching, it'll be strictly for Anna. (I would feel guilty giving any of her projects less than half stars, but c'mon girl, I know you can do better than this.)

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Thanks a Million (2020– )

8/10

Feels good, but still missing a little something

30 April 2020

Look, I'm not gonna hate on this show. It sets out to do something positive, and the intention behind it is pure goodness. That said, I've made it through four full episodes and the whole thing still feels kind of plastic, if you know what I mean. I think the main problem is, it's too short. And I hear you...'But the series is supposed to be made of shorts, that's what Quibi is.' Of course, I fully realize that, but each short ep runs about 8 to 9 minutes. In each clip, we are introduced to a celebrity (Jennifer Lopez, Kevin Hart, Kristen Bell, and more) and then taken along for a hurried ride as we meet the person/family the celeb is giving the money to; and then the next person, who gets half, and then the next person who gets half of that money. The original recipient gets half of $100,000; and then break that down twice more, basically. It's good and quick, but like I said, maybe too quick. The cash-giver celebs have good intentions but their explanations for why they chose a particular first recipient seem a bit repetitive and impersonal after a few episodes. In my opinion, the most genuine celebrities so far are Nick Jonas, and Kristen Bell. Nick truly had a story behind his person, and Kristen Bell just has such a good spirit about her. Jennifer Lopez also came off as sweet and earnest. But the last (small) thing I just can't quite get on board with is this: the third and final person in the giving chain is always told, "(celebrity name here) started this chain of gratitude, and I'm giving this (amount of $) to you!" No doubt the whole thing is scripted because of course it is. But that line, in every episode, just seems fake/cheap to me. There's just something kind of unnatural about that, almost like each celebrity demanded, "I'll do this, as long as you make sure and name drop me at the end," Just seems out of place. Sure, the celebrities featured are rich, and they're a great draw, and it's always nice to have a hand in something good. But the name dropping is usually so awkwardly delivered that kind of takes you right out of it for a few seconds. Maybe I'm much too nitpicky and it'll improve as it goes. 99% of these 'Average Joe' recipients aren't actors, anyway... not like I can do better!

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Mr. Right (I) (2015)

6/10

"The clown nose is tacky." This movie is wacky and weird.

11 April 2020

And yet: I still watched it all the way through. Seriously, "Mr. Right" is surprisingly good. I say "surprisingly" because... I'm a fan of Anna Kendrick, but I've found some of her recent movies to be pretty 'out there'...and kinda unappealing to my personal taste. So here it is: would I pay big bucks for this movie? No, to be perfectly honest, I wouldn't. But it's still surprisingly watchable, if you happen to find it playing on TV. I don't normally go for silly or outrageous movies; 'quirky' is about as weird as I can go, with film. And man, this ones got it in spades. Some of the dialogue is cringey, yes, and it ends up a weird "action-rom-com" situation (kind of like PP3, but no Acapella)...some of the direction also had me questioning Anna Kendrick's scene instructions. During the first couple action sequences, AK is literally just standing in the background with a subdued look. Really, in the scenes where your "Mr. Right" is facing off with some violent weirdos, your main girlfriend character is just hangin' out?

I wasn't as head over heels as I usually am for Ms. Kendrick in this movie, but I think that's more to do with her (slightly cuckoo) character than AK herself. She's not quite believable here, but I'll give her a pass because I like her so very much. To her credit, she and Sam Rockwell do make for a very unlikely pair. Her character Martha, does have more to do, action-wise toward the end of the movie, but the use of character still seemed off, to me.

Plus one for the wackness of a character named "Johnny Moon". I still don't know if that was his actual name, but it was entertaining. Plus another for Anna Kendrick's (Martha's) little jabs and quips at "Johnny Moon" and his posse. Ultimately forgettable, but a reasonably entertaining way to pass 1+ hours.

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Almost Family (2019–2020)

8/10

I honestly really like it.

11 October 2019

Yes, yes, this is an American remake of the Australian show "Sisters"...just like Showtime remade the UK's "Shameless".

That aside, although it's a bit corny in parts, I think the main 3 sisters have pretty good chemistry. I'm done for already, hooked. The show isn't entirely a comedy but it's not quite a full drama. I would classify this as a contemporary dramedy; made especially interesting because of the alternative pregnancy clinic angle. "Almost Family" raises questions surrounding IVF in a natural and entertaining way, (no pun intended) and although it's not perfect, it's not too preachy or too predictable, thanks to the 3 talented leading ladies. (Brittany Snow, Megan Echinowoke and Emily Osment)

My only quibble is Roxy, at this point (played by Emily Osment) is given the majority of the clever lines. Without her the show is definitely more dramatic. Here's to hoping though, that the show becomes a bit more balanced in the future, if they're going for a dramedy vibe.

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The Virgin Suicides (1999)

6/10

Was there even a point?

30 August 2019

I get that this movie is supposed to be complex, and somewhat cerebral, and that's fine. I love complex movies, I love dramas, I love complex, indie dramas - that said...this is Sofia Coppola's first effort as a director. (Yes, the Sofia Coppola from the infamous Godfather 3...) I do tend to like S Coppola more as a director; some of her more recent indie work is pretty good. So all in all, I was intrigued by this film; and I finally got around to watching it. Let's keep things simple here: It was not my favorite.

For one thing, the lack of dialogue. I'm willing to bet that even though this is a feature length movie, there were probably less than 30 pages of real dialogue. Silence can be advantageous and clever, but when multiple short, silent scenes are cut together, it just makes for a slow movie. And, what dialogue there was, seemed either overdramatic or completely unnecessary. I don't think anyone, other than the narrator, spoke more than a paragraph at a time.

Two, the boys. Now, I haven't read the original book, and from what I hear, the boys played a pretty major role in the book. But the movie paints them as annoying, lovesick peeping toms who hang out on the sidelines pretty much throughout the whole movie...and for what? What purpose do they serve, I'd like to know. Side note, how silly was that scene where the "immigrant" kid jumps off the roof?

Three, the characters. I did not get to know one character in this movie. Not one. Yes, all the Lisbon sisters are beautiful and troubled, but who exactly are they? What do they like to do, other than listen to music and brush their hair, and stare wistfully/dramatically out the window? Trip Fontaine shakes things up a bit, but then he's gone just as fast as he arrives...

Four, I simply found the narrator unnecessary. I get that he was trying to convey a deeper message about the meaning of life and all, but it just came off very contrived. Additionally, the narration was very monotone and boring.

One positive: I did like the soundtrack One positive: I did like Kirsten Dunst in the role of Lux, though she was under-utilized.

I love movies, and I don't ever hate on movies just because...but let's just say this was a one and done. Onward and upward, Ms. Coppola!

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Euphoria (2019– )

7/10

I fell in love with this show immediately, period.

19 June 2019

In the wake of HBO's smash success, "Game of Thrones"...comes this show, "Euphoria" (along with HBO's hopes that you won't immediately cancel your susbscription)...and I'm pleased to report that, at least in my own opinion, "Euphoria" is worth a watch. Also upfront, I'd like to politely agree to disagree with a reviewer who states "17-year-olds don't do coke". Not that I know much about teen drug use, but that seems like a very blanket statement...besides, this is a fictional show.

Now, that's out of the way. Very obviously, this is no "GOT": this is much more middle-class realism than it is fantasy. It's vulgar, and it depicts pretty graphic sex and drugs (mainly pills, coke, alcohol, vaping); but the artistic direction is spot-on. The visuals are wonderful, and our main narrator, 17-year-old Rue, is portrayed by the lovely and talented Zendaya. I admit, I was a little skeptical at first about Zendaya in such a role, but I think she really brings a lot to her character. As such, I'd say Zendaya is a pleasant surprise, here.

The show may suffer a little bit with regards to audience/viewership...it's fairly extreme to be considered a real 'teen' type series, but I think slightly older viewers (20-somethings like myself) might find more appeal. Yes, we've seen teen shows tackle sex, drugs, relationships, and rock n' roll before...but there's something about "Euphoria" that makes it unique. In today's connected world where things hinge on likes, ratings, views and swipes, "Euphoria" tracks Rue as she searches for deeper meaning, beyond the smartphone. It's a little overly-sexual for my personal tastes so far, but I said the same thing about the extreme violence in "GOT". I imagine I'll get used to it (or at least desensitized) as I watch on. (Though, whether or not this is ideal is something for another time...) Give it a chance!

I know I'll keep watching.

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The Act (2019)

7/10

Hook, Line and Sinker

26 March 2019

"The Act" has captivated me. I did a bit (just a bit) of reading up on Gypsy Rose's life/case prior to the series premiere, but Joey King and Patricia Arquette are really working at these roles; and it shows. Some people are irritated by King's affected persona/voice, but it's clear she's really giving it her all...that's how Gypsy really talks! The only reason I give 7/10 is because of the disturbing nature of the series. But the cinematography, characterization, everything else is ON POINT! Completely. Hooked on this show.

Please Hulu, release more than one ep per week!!!

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Whiskey Cavalier (2019)

7/10

After the apparent failure of "Take Two" comes...

15 March 2019

This show, "Whiskey Cavalier". Now, I liked last year's ill-fated "TT", an obvious "Castle" takeoff (though I seem to have been one of the few). "Whiskey Cavalier" is made of the same bones, but it's crime-solving on a higher, international level: FBI, CIA, *insert great exotic locations* and a project of the week and that's basically it. Yes, we've certainly seen this before, but it's still pretty fun for what it is. The question is; does this cast have the same kind of chemistry that made "Castle" so enjoyable? I honestly think that's what will make or break this show, and since every TV fan knows ABC stands for Already Been Canceled...I fear a little bit for the success of "Whiskey Cavalier", even though I think Scott Foley and Lauren Cohan have a slow-burn, developmental kind of chemistry. That said, I think of myself as an optimistic person, and I try to always support new shows featuring actors I like. So I'll support "WC", and I guess we'll just see where this goes. Note: I do hope the show is successful enough for Lauren Cohan to break out of her TWD typecasting, at least. I'm pleased to see her in a character who isn't battling walkers and facing death covered in blood, all the time. (This is not a knock to her acting); I think it's a little something different for her and I'm happy, on that front.

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Criminal Minds (2005– )

7/10

Less cookie-cutter, more psychology, BUT...

5 March 2019

Since its 15th season is confirmed to be "CM"'s last, I figured I'd finally write a review. I'll admit first, I was never really one for crime shows, until I saw this show. They're so violent and gritty, they never appealed to me. But when my sister first turned me on to "Criminal Minds", well, I had to eat my words. Crime and cop shows aren't all ugly and terrible: they can sometimes be fascinating. (Just like when I suddenly became a Grey's Anatomy person after years of avoiding medical shows...) Yes, yes, and yes, this show is very dark, gritty, and violent; but the earlier to middle seasons, at least, weren't so cookie-cutter as See bad guy, Catch bad guy, Roll credits. No, because these people, elite members of the BAU, are trained to work out the psychology of these bad guys. What makes them tick?What's their trigger? When will they strike again? In my personal opinion, the show peaked between seasons 1 to 6. (even though I'm not a fan of Mandy Patinkin) Maybe it helps that I've long been interested in atypical psychology, and criminal dynamics, but these seasons actually featured the BAU trying to crack the cases using psychological profiling, which is, to me, the reason to watch. Anyone can see a bad guy, catch a bad guy, and roll the credits, but isn't it kind of more interesting to go deeper than that? For some reason, (mainly contract disputes, and salary negotiations) after about season 7, the main cast is constantly shaken up and changed around, which causes a loss of chemistry between the actors. Sadly, it shows. And worse, just as the fans begin to adjust to the new actors/characters, they seem to be yanked: disappointing. Hand in hand with this, is a major change in writing, apparently, since the current episodes feature almost no criminal profiling: what should continue to be the highlight of a show called "Criminal Minds". It's now definitely more of a cookie-cutter See bad guy, Catch bad guy, Roll credits, which is frankly sad, especially when this show started out as so much more.

CBS really shot themselves in the foot with all the actor/actress shakeups and departures. But at its core, "CM" is a pretty solid and unique show considering its competitors.

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Single Parents (2018–2020)

8/10

A really solid show

14 December 2018

I admit, this show can get (rather unexpectedly) political at times; and that's probably its biggest fault. But if you can ignore the political jabs (though some of them are spot-on, I gotta say), what you'll find is a great show about what it means to be a parent, and to have a family. And, no canned laugh track! The single parent characters may be lacking a traditional family structure, but they make up for that with a tight-knit friend group: moms Angie and Poppy, and dads Douglas, Miggy, and newcomer Will.

Yes, Will's character is over-the-top corny sometimes, but he's written as kind of a goof. And, he's a lovable goof at that, who cares a lot about his daughter, and his single parent friends. This show plays on stereotypes and cliches to a certain extent - what show doesn't? But overall, I think they are trying to break the mold. The show is a happy, feel-good one, but these characters have real problems - Angie's son Graham is extremely attached to her, Douglas holds in his emotions because he wants his girls to see him as a strong father figure, Miggy, as a new dad, is winging it, perfect single dad Will is maybe not so perfect...etc.

"Single Parents" may not be the best comedy I've ever seen. In fact, I rarely watch comedies, but I really like this show: it has witty writing, and some clever one-liners. This show has earned a weekly spot on my DVR; and I'm awaiting its return in early 2019!

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