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Sleepin_Dragon
On the radar:
TV Shows,
-The Avengers Series 2,
-Van Der Valk,
-Grandma's House,
-The Saint,
-The Army Game,
-Inspector Alleyn Mysteries,
-Last of The Summer wine.
Movies,
-Frenzy,
-Aviator,
-Ray,
-The Man who knew too much,
-12 Years a Slave.
I am truly looking forward to the follow ups to Dune and The Meg, as well as the return of Dr Who.
Ratings
Most Recently Rated
Lists
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A Passionate Woman (2010)
An incredibly dramatic from The BBC.
Back in the 1950's, young married mother Betty meets and falls in love with a handsome, somewhat dubious Polish man named Craze. Betty and Craze have a passionate affair, one that comes to a tragic climax.
Notable for one thing in particular, the on screen acting debut of Theo James, it's worth a 10/10 for that alone.
One character, two actresses, one story of passion and longing. Immaculately written by the much missed, late Kay Mellor, a terrific talent.
Episode one is tremendous, the second episode is even better, it really is the most captivating watch.
It really does go to show the power of love, that person that takes your breath away, and makes time stop, that really is the case for Betty, but was her love reciprocated? I can't say I'm too sure.
Billie Piper does a great job, Sue Johnston is sensational as the mature Betty, credit to the whole supporting cast.
Production values are amazing, the 50's and 80's are brought to life spectacularly well, and the music is fantastic.
Superb.
10/10.
A Passionate Woman: Episode #1.2 (2010)
It's an amazing drama.
Fast forward to the 1980's Betty is devastated to learn that her son Mark has decided to emigrate to Australian with his soon to be wife Jo. Betty is beside herself, and is still haunted by the death of Craze.
I thought episode one was brilliant, somehow this second part is even better. It's a captivating story, a love story, full of passion, betrayal, loving and longing.
I had no issues believing that Sue Johnston was an older version of Billie Piper, talk about perfect casting. Johnston delivers a tremendous performance, she is a wonderful talent, you really feel Betty's pain and frustration.
That scene where Betty speaks to Mark about her loveless marriage was terrific, amazing acting.
Production values are spot on, it looks amazing, I know it was made a few years back, but they brought the 80's to life in style.
Awesome.
10/10.
Bloodwork (2012)
Not great, but bizarrely watchable.
Two College friends agree to take part in a pharmaceutical trial for a new anti histamine medication, unfortunately the testing trials have a shocking effect on the subjects.
It started so well, the first half an hour or so was really intriguing, offering up several chilling possibilities, you have no idea quite where they're going to take it.
It has a few surprises and a couple of laughs, it's one of those films that's worth checking out if you're at a loose end.
Sadly the direction they take it in, is disappointing, it's so repetitive and predictable, it could have been a real chiller, if they'd stayed within the possibilities of reality, it could have worked,
Eric Roberts is here, but blink and you'll miss him, he's good, but is given minutes of screen time.
5/10.
Disappearance (2002)
Worth seeing.
A family roadtrip takes a detour to a small, uninhabited ghost town, by the name of Weaver, a town that isn't on the map, a town that nobody nearby has heard of. The family arrive in Weaver, leaving proves incredibly difficult.
There's a very eerie vibe that makes this film so watchable, hard to classify exactly what type of film it is, perhaps a suspense thriller, it's certainly one to keep your attention, and keep you guessing.
The ending may be frustrating for some, but I thought it worked rather well, it's so vague, so ambiguous, you know there's some sort of bizarre thing happening, but just exactly what, nobody knows.
Well acted, nicely made, not a huge amount to complain about.
7/10.
Benidorm: Episode #4.4 (2011)
Classic episode.
Benidorm is hit by a massive storm, Madge is convinced that it's an act of terrorism, with everyone in a flap, Les takes control. An old flame of Janice's turns up, Donald shares some upsetting news.
Another brilliant episode, series four truly delivers on every level, this is another classic. So many cracking moments, and young Michael's romance is really sweet.
Selina Griffiths continues with her utterly brilliant performance as Pauline, for me the best of the short staying guests. Best scene, Pauline and Michael enjoying a pint.
Tim Healey is truly a joy here, what a talented actor he is, Lesley is very much becoming one of the main characters.
Classic.
9/10.
Monolith (2022)
Unexpectedly good.
After a career ending misjudgement, a Journalist uncovers a vague conspiracy theory through her podcast, as she digs deeper, she realises she's closer to the conspiracy than she first realised.
One of those films that you could easily dismiss as mehh, but if you stick with it, I think you may get something out of it. It held my attention all the way through.
Tagged as a horror, absolutely not, in no way, shape or form does this have a single scare, it's more a mystery, with sci fi undertones, you'll be kept intrigued enough, to want to hear the conclusion.
The twist at the end of the film was the highlight, and definitely the most unsettling sequence.
A very competent performance from Lily Sullivan, who carries the film pretty much single handedly.
7/10.
Doctor Who: The Devil's Chord (2024)
Some good stuff here.
The Doctor and Ruby travel back to the 1960's, and discover a world without music.
Definitely an improvement over Space Babies, a very creative and imaginative storyline, well executed, with some exuberant performances.
Some exquisite imagery, scenes of a future, devastated Earth looked terrific. Ncuti and Millie looked fabulous in their sixties outfits.
Very Disney at times, you can see that there's some money being spent on this show.
I wish they'd gotten togerher a quartet that resembled The Beatles a little bit more, they just weren't right somehow.
Jinx Monsoon, as camp and over the top as you'd expect, and as we all know The BBC loves A drag Queen, but Jinx did a good job, I'm sure there'll be more.
7/10.
Doctor Who: Space Babies (2024)
It's a likeable enough start, if slightly underwhelming.
The Doctor and Ruby take their first trip away from Earth, landing on a Space Station run by babies.
It's a big factory reset, and I get why Russell chose to do it, the show was definitely in need of freshening up, Russell has clearly done his best to attract a new audience.
For someone that's never seen the show before, this one could well fill in the blanks, set the scene etc, long term fans may well be a little frustrated by the number of explanations and long established content.
Ncuti and Ruby, I like the new duo, they bounced well of one another, the story itself, I think underwhelming is the word I'd use, with a title like Space Babies, we were given exactly what I was expecting, though the target audience feels like it's gone down a few notches.
Well acted, nice production values, enough here to make me think some really good stuff awaits.
6/10.
Murder in Eden (1961)
Lots of fun.
After he denounces a valuable painting as a fraud, art critic Max Aaronson is killed in a bit and run accident, but who possibly could have done it?
Better than I was expecting, definitely better than some of the comments would suggest, it's a very pleasing mystery, one with a couple of decent twists and turns.
There's a good scuttle at the end, with some decent looking fisticuffs, not always a success at this point in time, but they work here.
If you're a fan of all things 1960's, like I am, then there'll be something here for you, even if the story isn't quite your thing, you'll enjoy the fashions, styles, music and of course Genevieve's fabulous bubble car.
Solid performances throughout, everyone plays their part well, Genevieve was a cracking character.
7/10.
Professor T: Attachment Issues (2024)
The best yet.
A woman is found dead at the scene of a car accident, the post mortem reveals that she wasn't killed by the crash, but had been murdered first and placed. Jasper finally learns what happened to his father. Duane Vermorel is suspected.
This show is getting better and better, this was a truly brilliant episode, I'd argue the best episode of Professor T to date, excellent in every respect.
That ending was shocking, talk about heart breaking.
The main crime was great, but Jasper's back story was incredible, and that scene between mother and son was incredible. Will be see a different Professor T in series 4, he's definitely been set free.
Gerald Kyd is definitely one of those actors I take notice of, he's excellent. Ben Miller, another league, the best of our Professor so far.
Superbly made, it looked and sounded great.
10/10.
Professor T: The Conference (2024)
A clever mystery.
Jasper retains his role at The University, but his former replacement is given the honour of delivering a key note speech. Jasper is annoyed at being snubbed, but soon finds himself investigating his replacement's murder.
Another good episode from this rather impressive third series, a very pleasing storyline, with Jasper right in the thick of things, but unfortunately for him, in the land of nod.
We see Jasper back to his prime, Prison must really have been a torment for him, that scene where he's cleaning his bed, in a full suit, that's wild.
The main question I guess, what's in the attic? What impact will the findings have on our Professor?
Is this the end for Donckers? I hope not, she's really grown on me as a character.
8/10.
Professor T: A Little Drop of Poison (2024)
A Factory reset, a pretty good one at that.
Donckers and Winters investigate a spate of poisonings, which are linked to a chocolate manufacture, worse for them, their new boss, Maiya Goswami, refuses to allow Professor T anywhere near the case.
It felt like a factory reset, the first half of the series, the prison years, felt very different, like a hangover from series 2, but it worked so well.
I liked this episode, an enjoyable story, perhaps a little too easy to work out whodunnit, and possibly the sub plot also, but who doesn't love a poisoning storyline, reminded me of a Taggart mystery from a long time back.
The reset is decent, I liked Sunetra Sarker's new character, she's definitely going to be a tough cookie, good though, he'll have to win her over.
The music as always, brilliant.
Those chocolates didn't exactly look particularly appealing. Poor Kafka.
7/10.
Dalziel and Pascoe: Walls of Silence (2001)
A quality start to series six.
Memories of a tragic, accidental death, after Dalziel investigates the death of Alec Jordan, a sixteen year old pupil and musician. Andy has a vested interest in the case after accidentally running over and killing his mother some years back.
It's a very strong start to series six, one of the show's best runs. Walls of Silence feels a lot more modern than it actually is, the story and characters feel fresh and current, only the clunky phone really does date it.
I've always found this one rather sad, it's very bleak, the deaths are all tragic and unnecessary, it's far from a run of the mill whodunnit, it's definitely a little different.
Several taboo subjects, date rape drugs, underage sex, drugs at school, it's a story ahead of its time.
The ending came as a surprise, not the outcome I'd expected, worked well.
Very well acted, Paul Brennen and Sarah Smart both stood out.
8/10.
Whodunnit?: Final Drive (1975)
Fun and frills.
Who's killed Jim Baxter, a retired racing car driver and owner of the motoring firm, could it be his stepson, protégé or his wife.
It really was the basis for Cluedo, but better for my money. Look after actors they managed to get on the show.
I didn't spot any of the clues in this one if I'm honest, it got me, an interesting enough mystery, with a nice set of suspects.
Aimi MacDonald continues to be an absolute joy, the way Pertwee chats with her, so sweet.
Jon Pertwee looks incredibly elegant in that hideous outfit, only he could get away with wearing that monstrous set.
Mr PM Larkin didn't look too happy to have won the competition, I'd have been jumping about the place.
Simon Williams is a scream, and definitely had a bit of fun with Pertwee.
7/10.
Ghosts: Ghost Hunter (2023)
Very cute.
Freddie is convinced that the building is surrounded by ghosts, and to that end he buys a ghost catching device from Latvia, he sets a trap baiting the machine with an Oreo cookie, what could go wrong?
Definitely one of the cuter episodes, not a classic, not particularly funny, but definitely a couple of sweet moments. It may have been nice if they'd decided to make Pete out to be a hero for a change, too obvious to have Thor playing the big man.
Sasappis getting to spend time with Jessica was cute, and an understanding Jay buying the car was nice. Although I'm glad that Jessica didn't become a regular, only so far you could go in a car.
Flower and Thorfinn, that really would be an interesting date, she'd drive anyone nuts.
7/10.
The Twelve: Episode #1.10 (2022)
Karma waits.
The Jurors are made to stay at a hotel, as information about a previous crime has leaked. The twelve deliberate, and reach their final verdict, but will Kate's story be believed?
A solid conclusion, it goes the way you'd expect, but maybe the series was never about the case, but about the Jurors, that's certainly where the focus is.
It's quite a sweet ending, for most of them, and maybe a little too syrupy in parts, but there's a nasty twist waiting in store.
There are two genuinely strong performances here, Sam Neill and Kate Mulvany, the two were excellent, and their final scene together was an outstanding moment.
I'm assuming if you're reading this, that you've made it all the way through, was she lying, was she telling the truth, I'm not soel, sure.
7/10.
The Twelve (2022)
Keep with it, ultimately it's worth it.
Kate Lawson stands trial for the murder of Claire, her niece, despite having no body, The Crown make a convincing case for the prosecution, A Jury of twelve have to decide whether she is guilty or innocent.
Overall, it's good, but one thing I have to point out, it's taken me four months to go from start to finish, and there's something in that. Some episodes are truly excellent, some are agonising.
What would have made a huge difference, is if had been over six episodes, at ten, it's just way too long, it drags on far too long.
ITV clearly got frustrated with it, and I imagine so did the viewers, which is why it ended up being shown at random, late times, I get why people got frustrated with it.
I would have liked more focus on the Kate story itself, too much filler when it came to the jurors, some stories were interesting, some weren't.
Interesting to see how the system works, and how day to say stresses can have a big impact on a Jury, it can be a tough thing to do.
Of course Sam Neill is wonderful, when isn't he, but he's in some good company here, I have to highlight Brooke Satchwell, I think she's excellent as the tormented mother, walking on eggshells. Standout for me, Kate Mulvany, with that hair and those lips, she's packing charisma, I really rate her.
7/10.
The Twelve: Episode #1.9 (2022)
Shocking revelations.
It comes to light that Nathan has donated perjury, an angered case decides to vent, and takes to the stand, against Colby's better judgment. The Crown takes Kate to task.
It's definitely starting to move up a few gears, it's the first time I've felt like binge watching a couple of episodes, I'm not keen to know whether Kate is guilty or not, that shocking revelation at the end makes it look as though she certainly has the capacity.
This was truly well acted, Mulvany once again standing out I'd say, what a presence she is, I just love her style too.
Even the juror's stories had my interest here, poor Georgina, you can see the cycle of abuse she's stuck in, it's truly well realised. Vanessa once again, boils my blood.
Two big questions, did she kill before, did she kill this time?
8/10.
The Twelve: Episode #1.8 (2022)
Very good.
Claire's boarding school Mistress takes to the stand, and makes an incredibly bold statement, one that could have a massive impact on the trial. Claire's ex boyfriend Colby is questioned, and a random phone call seemingly from Claire raises alarm bells.
Slow to start, frustratingly so, but as it gets going, it opens up so well, this one really ended with a bit of high drama, arguably the best episode for some time.
Jamie is definitely coming across as the villain of the piece, he's such a controlling, evil monster, has worse than Kate.
I'm definitely going to highlight Brooke Satchwell, I thought she was terrific here, and you really do get a sense of Georgina's fear of her husband.
8/10.
Dr. Phibes Rises Again (1972)
I'm glad he rose again, it's a fun movie.
Having been dormant for some years, Doctor Phibes is back, and searching for a powerful set of scrolls, with the hope of bringing his dead wife back to life.
I cannot count how many times I've watched this film, it truly is the perfect pick me up, sure the story is nonsense and seemingly made up as it goes along, but in terms of entertainment, this film delivers.
At times it looks great, some sets and scenes are really good, but unfortunately it also looks very low budget too, let's say it looks imaginative.
A good drinking game, is to count how many times Price delivers the wonderful name..... 'Vulnavia,' honestly, you'll be saying it in your sleep.
I don't think it's Price at his best, he doesn't exactly have the material, nor do I think Quarry is all that good, but some of the performances are sublime, Hugh Griffith, Beryl Reid and a fleeting performance from John Thaw.
The film's magic however, comes from Peter Jeffrey and John Cater, the detective duo are side splitting, they should have gotten a spin off.
Sure it's funny, but the death scenes are great, the scorpions, the phone ..... enough to have given me many nightmares as a youngster.
Low budget, camp, but huge fun to this day.
8/10.
Beyond Paradise: Episode #2.2 (2024)
Great episode.
Belle Hammond visits psychic medium Claire Moss, who predicts a fire, on a second visit she predicts care trouble, Belle breaks down, another prediction is made. Humphrey and Martha are interviewed by the adoption authorities.
One of the show's best episodes to date, this was excellent.
So good, so so good, I loved the story, I loved the sun story, the humour, and one scene in particular struck a chord, that moment where Humphrey is being interviewed, and gives an honest account of himself, tremendous, Marshall at his best.
That scene between Martha and Esther, wonderful, the acting throughout this episode was really top notch.
Of course there are a few moments of humour thrown in, and once again Anne's social life provides plenty of entertainment.
Even better, it's got Peter Davison.
9/10.
Wreck: You Can Let Go Now (2024)
Jamie's choice.
The true nightmare of The Island is revealed, and the true puppet master is identified, Jamie is sent to the island, and has to make a terrible choice.
I think it beats the first series hands down, it's been a lot more consistent, it's had more humour, more gore and more surprises.
The final revelation was unexpected, a twist I hadn't been expecting. Jamie's choice, that scene was entertaining. Joseph and Devon were definitely an interesting duo.
Jamie, he doesn't have push your buttons, he really is a very confused young man isn't he.
I'm glad they recapped all of the deaths, fair to say there have been plenty of them.
Will there be a third series?
8/10.
Wreck: Gaylords of the Galaxy (2024)
Strong episode.
Karen hatches a plan to do away with the entire Devereaux family, after further tragedies, everyone is in favour, with the exception of Jamie.
This was heaps of fun, imagine Halloween meets Midsommar, meets EastEnders, and set it in a gay bar, there you have your answer.
Beaker was so much fun once again, he really is so outrageous.
Finally we learn what the change maker program is, sounds interesting.
I am started to lose it with Jamie, has he lost his sense of reason, I'm definitely team Karen in this instance, with all that's happened, he wants them simply to carry on, it's bonkers, he's become somewhat irritating, too much whining.
Casting Alan Dale was a stroke of genius, what a legend.
9/10.
Wreck: Disposable (2024)
It's building nicely.
Jamie and Vivian decide to stay at the camp, but the rest jump into the van and escape, unfortunately they run into a spot of bother.
This was exciting, shocking and somewhat moving, once again you have to credit the writing team, for being brave enough to bump off the main characters.
Once again I find myself binge watching the series, so it must be pretty good, and hitting the mark.
I'm definitely expecting some sort of a twist, and I don't know why, but right now I'm expecting it to come from Jean, she's definitely going to have a part to play.
I was really starting to take to Sophia. I'm still really unsure as to the part Karen has to play, I'm not convinced that she's a good guy.
Loving that name in the credits, simply The Creep, but who or what is Martin.
Very entertaining.
8/10.
Wreck: Hold the Line (2024)
It's holding my attention.
The guests are set to start arriving, little knowing what's in store for them, Jamie and his mates go searching the local area, and make a very grim discovery. Jamie learns who helped him in the woods.
It's at the midway point, and my interest has definitely even maintained, in some ways I think I'm preferring it to the first series, it's a little more consistent somehow.
Loving Karen and her story, although I'm very unsure of which side of the fence she's sitting on.
The writing team do a good job at showing the state of play, we've got a misunderstood Karen, and we also have the fascinating Miss Devereaux, she presents as being so kind, so polite, but underneath she's an utter monster, controlling and oppressive, but all done with a smile.
What's the plan?
Next.
7/10.