snoozejonc Reviews

Breaking Bad: Over (2009) Season 2, Episode 10

One of the defining Walt episodes

[9/10 · 2 June 2024]

This is a great character development episode for Walt as he is very effective portrayed at a crossroads following the update on his condition.

The writers, filmmakers and actors do a brilliant job of portraying his state of mind with visual storytelling and some intense character interactions.

The party scene is generally quite excruciating to watch, not just because of Walt's behaviour. As well meaning as it is I find the concept of a big party for this reason a bit of a weird concept in itself. I can understand close family celebrating together but this just feels odd. Skyler's speech is so cringeworthy it almost feels contrived to bring about a reaction from Walt. Nevertheless it sets up a great confrontation.

I love the scenes of him trying to go back to life before meth and distracting himself with DIY. Ultimately we see an attempt to be someone he is not and at times it is amusing. However, when the real Walt emerges it is pretty disturbing. It all leads to an incredibly powerful climax at the DIY store car park.

Bryan Cranston is immense in so many scenes he makes the character seem real. In one episode he can provoke pity, embarrassment, humour, revulsion and fear.

The Jesse scenes work well to set up later moments in the overarching narrative. He continues to be developed nicely as a downtrodden character with a good heart. Aaron Paul is on great form and also makes the character feel real. So much so he reminds me of one of my friends.

Breaking Bad: 4 Days Out (2009) Season 2, Episode 9

Flight of the Fleetwood Bounder

[9/10 · 1 June 2024]

4 Days Out is a great example of visual storytelling that uses the camera wonderfully to capture subjects and also the performance of actors. It is difficult to pick a favourite moment but I love all the imagery captured in the Walt-Jesse scenes, especially the use of the setting sun and desert landscapes. This is brilliantly combined with the cooking scenes and situation the characters are placed. Arguably the writers have used a clichéd premise that we know will be resolved, but it is an example of the trope done very well.

Other scenes beautifully captured include Walt's hospital scenes, particularly his reaction to seeing something on screen and the later scenes with his family. The interaction between Jesse and Jane is also great, and for me it shows the tranquil beauty of Krysten Ritter in a way that makes a certain decision made by Jesse feel like a particularly bad one.

All actors are on great form, particularly Aaron Paul and Bryan Cranston. There is a great mixture of comedy, drama and irony in the writing that the cast enhance with their performances. The acting from everyone in the final few scenes is awesome.

Breaking Bad: Better Call Saul (2009) Season 2, Episode 8

"Criminal" lawyer

[10/10 · 31 May 2024]

Badger runs into trouble, causing problems for Walt and Jesse.

Better Call Saul introduces arguably the most iconic and prolific franchise character with great humour and moments of suspense.

The pre-credits introduction is hilarious and sets a great tone for what is to come. It is a great portrayal of novice criminals realising they are in over their heads and being schooled by an opportunistic professional.

Bob Odenkirk changes the show's dynamics with his sharp, humorous and honestly-dishonest character. Henceforth you look forward to all scenes involving "Saul Goodman" and have the perfect show to watch after finishing Breaking Bad. If you have already watched the spin-off, it adds a refreshing perspective to his Breaking Bad scenes.

Irrespective of the titular character's entertainment value, it is an important episode in the show's overarching narrative. It adds plausibility to Walt and Jesse's continued success and is a well plotted episode in its own right. Events unfold perfectly to a climax of high tension.

Breaking Bad: Negro y Azul (2009) Season 2, Episode 7

Strong episode with memorable moments

[9/10 · 30 May 2024]

This is a strong episode that lays the foundations well for things to come and has some defining character moments.

A consistent theme throughout is deception between individuals and it is expressed wonderfully by the plot and character interactions.

I think the focus on Hank is the most interesting aspect. The concept of him being in this type of situation, when his emotional state has previously been revealed, is very intriguing. There is a good dose of irony from the writers in how the subplot ends for him, not to mention crazily sadistic visual storytelling.

The first time I watched Breaking Bad (many years ago) I remember the above generated a sense of foreboding with regards to Walt and Jesse's character arcs. You cannot help but wonder what will happen when their paths cross with drug cartel villains.

The scenes involving the two leads characters sew good seeds for what is to come this season and later in the overarching narrative. I like the dynamic between them having more layers than the exploitation and abuse shown previously. It is hard not to laugh at certain moments of characters getting carried away with ambition.

Visually it is awesome as always. The actors, camera, and editing tell the story perfectly in various ways be it tender or brutal.

For me it's an 8.5/10, but I round upwards.

Breaking Bad: Peekaboo (2009) Season 2, Episode 6

My bank!

[10/10 · 29 May 2024]

This is a powerful episode considering how little the narrative moves. It is an example of how compelling character interactions can be when done right.

The scenes involving Jesse are tense, humorous and shockingly sad storytelling in equal measure. The lasting impression it left with me was the latter. Spooge and Skank would not look out of place as zombies off the set of The Walking Dead and feel almost like caricatures in some moments. However, the worst thing about the concept is that you know there are children who suffer a similar start to life or do not survive past infancy due to neglectful and/or abusive parents.

Walt's scenes are wonderfully written and performed. You feel the writers have the character in a transition point of revealing his true self. Bryan Cranston has the capacity to amuse and terrify in various scenes. He is supported very well by Anna Gunn and Jessica Hecht.

It is an important episode for the lead characters as it says a lot about who they are and potential behaviour yet to come.

Visually it is excellent as always, with certain moments working well, whether it be for drama or humour. The set-design, make-up, lighting and editing during the scenes involving Jesse is very effective.

It's a 9.5/10 for me but I round upwards.

Breaking Bad: Breakage (2009) Season 2, Episode 5

Strong reflective character episode

[8/10 · 28 May 2024]

I think it depends on how interested you are in the mindset of various characters as to how much you will take from it. If you just want to see the big events of the the plot you might struggle, but personally I like how the writers address the impact of certain events on characters in a plausible way. It would be easy to move on from one moment of outrageousness or spectacle to the next, but a big part of the story is the toll Walt's behaviour takes on people.

The scenes involving Hank are nicely done with the great visual storytelling. I like the use of Tuco's grill and also the "bottling up" moments in the man cave. Dean Norris does a great job of conveying pent up emotion in an environment that does not do weakness well.

Walt and his family life continues to be portrayed plausibly throughout his deception, plus his potential to oppress and dominate others is being established well with the foundations laid in episodes like this.

The use of visuals and sound is great as always.

Breaking Bad: Down (2009) Season 2, Episode 4

Awesome performances

[9/10 · 27 May 2024]

The previous episode showed how the Walt and Jesse characters dealt with aftermath of the situation involving Tuco, so this one does a brilliant job depicting plausible fallout it has with the people around them.

I like that the writers do not take the convenient option of portraying Skyler as oblivious to Walt's deception and the filmmakers enhance it by making his overcompensating behaviour quite cringeworthy to watch.

A lot of the credit should go to Bryan Cranston and Anna Gunn for their amazing performances. You swear it is real they interact so convincingly.

Aaron Paul is incredibly good as Jesse, and along with the writers and filmmakers he makes the character both downtrodden and sympathetic.

Little Shop of Horrors (1986)

I prefer the darker ending of the Director's Cut

[9/10 · 27 May 2024]

Little Shop Of Horrors has a lot going for it: Humour, spectacle, art design, music and generally great visual storytelling.

I think to fully appreciate it you have to like the songs and premise. Personally I love the tongue in cheek tone, period set design and enjoy most of the songs.

Rick Moranis and Ellen Greene are both excellent as Seymour and Audrey. Moranis plays a fairly dark role with such childlike innocence. Greene is even better as she lives and breathes her character in every word and mannerism. They are supported well by Vincent Gardenia, Levi Stubbs, Bill Murray and the brilliant Steve Martin.

Visually it is fantastic in my opinion. There is a great style and atmosphere created by the set design, costuming, cinematography and editing. The amazing puppetry and design of Audrey II is iconic and holds up against the standard of today's computer generated movie industry.

Breaking Bad: Bit by a Dead Bee (2009) Season 2, Episode 3

Strong aftermath

[9/10 · 27 May 2024]

We see what happens immediately after Walt and Jesse's encounter with Tuco.

This is a cleverly written episode that treats the situation plausibly and deals with how certain aspects have to be explained to other characters. The writers have given attention to important details that are necessary to avoid contrivances. Additionally, I like how they use a previous scene between Hank and Wendy as a bit of Karma striking back.

Importantly, it lays the foundations perfectly for the next episode, which is very emotionally charged.

All actors are on great form as always and the visuals are strong.

For me it's an 8.5/10 but I round upwards.

Breaking Bad: Grilled (2009) Season 2, Episode 2

Strong hostage thriller with memorable character moments

[9/10 · 25 May 2024]

Walt and Jesse are held captive by Tuco.

This is the type of plot that is incredibly tense and compelling when you see it for the first time, but not quite as much when you rewatch and know what's coming. However, there are elements of the storytelling that I never tire of seeing such as the cold open and when we eventually get back to the starting point.

The interaction between Walter, Jesse, Tuco and the introduced character Tio are the highlight for me. The writers use the characters very well and the actors are all brilliant. This also includes the flip side of the rewatch coin, as knowledge of what is to come in Breaking Bad plus Better Call Saul makes Tio's introduction even better the second time round.

Dean Norris is on good form as Hank and both he and the writers do a great job of showing the various sides of the character.

As ever the visual storytelling created by the filmmakers in Breaking Bad is excellent. Little moments like Walt gesturing with the flyswatter are outstanding, plus the cinematography and editing make it feel very tense.

Star Trek: The Next Generation: Suddenly Human (1990) Season 4, Episode 4

Patrick Stewart rescues it

[6/10 · 22 May 2024]

Enterprise encounters a human boy raised by a different species.

This is an okay episode with good performances.

The story has some interesting themes, particularly the cultural clash aspects and the question of wellbeing of an individual in this type of situation.

For me it is portrayed with some contrivances and instances of over explanation. Do we need Troi to address Picard's role dealing with the situation? Is it even the correct approach? Does it feel forced into the story to fit Picard's character development? Would Worf have been a better fit to lead the story? Is the eventual "I've learned something today" speech simplistic or even necessary? Has Picard been portrayed as too astute a leader in previous episodes to accept he would not see the right course of action from the start? Why introduce a certain character only to disregard her at the story's resolution?

I think these aspects plus some others tend make the characters and plot feel a bit silly for getting to the extreme situations they are faced with.

That being said the performance of Patrick Stewart (as always) lifts the material significantly. So much so you can buy into most situations because he is such an engaging actor. He is supported well by Sherman Howard in certain scenes. Chad Allen does his best with the material he has in the key role of Jono, but the emphasis is more on the conflict between Enterprise and Talarians than the effect on his character.

BoJack Horseman: The Judge (2017) Season 4, Episode 8

Good episode with a standout moment

[7/10 · 20 May 2024]

BoJack is jealous of his daughter spending time with new boyfriend.

This is good episode that appears to be laying foundations for what might be coming in certain plot threads. The scenes involving BoJack generate an effective level of dread about what might become of his relationship with Hollyhock. Plus the Mr Peanutbutter scenes take an interesting twist.

The plot involving Princess Carolyn I personally found to be a bit flat and possibly there to fill time.

Easily my favourite moment was Todd's idea of the clown-dentists, which provoked some loud involuntary laughter from me just as a concept.

Bluey: Flat Pack (2020) Season 2, Episode 24

Creation made beautiful

[10/10 · 19 May 2024]

Bandit and Chilli do some DIY assembly as the girls play.

This is one of the best Bluey sketches that is a fun, emotional and a reasonably deep seven minutes.

Flat Pack tricks you into thinking it will be another simple yet very effective sketch focussed on observational family humour and general character antics. However, as the story unfolds (and we observe the behaviour of Bluey and Bingo), it is clearly anything but simple. The writers tackle themes of evolution and creation with depth and the usual humour and emotion.

It is fantastic to watch both parents and children interact throughout and it it all lead to a phenomenal climax.

BoJack Horseman: Underground (2017) Season 4, Episode 7

Lots of funny moments

[8/10 · 18 May 2024]

Mr Peanutbutter's campaign fundraiser takes an unexpected turn.

This is a strong episode with good absurd comedy.

There are lots of crazy shenanigans and funny dialogue. The premise alone is pretty humorous, but how certain characters behave in the extreme situation makes it even funnier.

The writers use characters like Mr Peanutbutter, Diane, Woodchuck and Jessica Biel very well. There is an A-B plot structure that works well. BoJack does not have the central focus but has plenty of worthwhile interactions, particularly with Diane.

Visually it it very good, particularly the all the disaster related spectacle.

Porridge: Rough Justice (1977) Season 3, Episode 3

Another thief among us

[8/10 · 14 May 2024]

Judge Rawley continues to have problems with that nerk 'Arris.

This is a strong episode with good comic dialogue and social commentary.

The general banter between Fletch and other inmates is at it's usual high standard, but for me the kangaroo court scene stands out as having the best moments. In a silly comical way it takes a good swipe at the disparities found in the justice system. Clement and La Frenais use the characters of Rawley and Harris particularly well.

Ronnie Barker is on great form as ever. Ronald Lacey is also a standout as he embodies his character in a way that brings out hints his evilness, but does it in a funny way. Sam Kelly also has some memorable moment as Warren.

Dark (2017–2020)

Bleak, complex and beautiful

[9/10 · 12 May 2024]

Dark is an epic, temporal sci-fi drama with some very memorable moments.

A lot of thought has gone into the detail and connection of events portrayed in the plot. It is a challenge to process all the information and I would suggest making note of who is related to who as you go along. Plus as characters take significant actions in different time periods, either keep notes of this or read summaries of the previous episode before moving on to the next. It would probably be worth trying to familiarise yourself with some of the more well known theories of quantum mechanics before the third season.

For me the first season is the most intriguing as there is not as much revealed outside of various strange events. The second and third seasons expand the scope of storytelling and sci-fi concepts significantly and become quite mind-bending. I think it all leads to a great conclusion that is worth the investment of time and does not feel like an anticlimax.

All characters are fantastically written, with lots of detail put into their development and connections to each other and various events. All actors are consistently great in the roles and it's hard to pick a standout performer. For me Lisa Vicari is a great actress with awesome screen presence and has the strongest material to showcase her ability.

Generally the cinematography, sound effects, music, art design, period detail, colour grading, special effects and editing are all top quality. The filmmakers use everything at their disposal to keep the atmosphere bleak yet suspenseful throughout. Considering there is a lot of dialogue it never feels like we are being told what is happening as the visual storytelling is first class.

There are moments (especially on reflection) when you feel certain characters are being portrayed as overly mysterious or sinister purely for the sake of audience intrigue, but this is not a major issue.

The only downside for me (and this is just a matter of personal taste) is that the tone is constantly downbeat and the characters are written to be utterly humourless. I understand that the mood is supposed to be bleak, particularly relating to themes of humans acting selfishly on their deepest desires to the point where it causes harm to others. However, a moderate amount of black humour would not have been detrimental in my opinion.

Dark: Das Paradies (2020) Season 3, Episode 8

A perfect finish

[10/10 · 12 May 2024]

It is pretty much impossible to write about the story details without spoiling, however it is safe to say the writers deliver the ending it needed after the complexity of the past two seasons.

What I like the most is that in a show that has been brutal with violence and self serving behaviour, we have a resolution where certain characters are required to do something positive.

Certain characters are used very well, particularly Jonas, Martha and Tannhaus. Plus the characters who appear in a final group scene together are quite memorable. All actors are tremendous as they have been throughout the series.

For me the writers owe the viewers a satisfying conclusion after we invested a lot of time in bleak and challenging story and they achieve it.

Dark: Zwischen der Zeit (2020) Season 3, Episode 7

Starting to make sense now

[9/10 · 12 May 2024]

This is a pretty epic episode in the scope of the events portrayed.

I think the plotting lays solid foundations for the series to conclude.

The opening scenes of exposition dialogue are pretty unsubtle, but necessary given the nature of the sci-fi concepts portrayed previously. What follows is a series of mind blowing jumps through time that explain various events and suitably informs the audience before the finale, which I am hoping will provide a coherent explanation (for a layperson like me) of what caused the entwined timelines.

Considering the complexity of the narrative, the various plot threads unfold in a compelling way. I like how certain characters are shown from a different perspective and we see the evolution of certain key individuals.

Visually it is fantastic. I love the sci-fi spectacle, but also appreciate the art design required to portray multiple timelines. The editor deserves a lot of credit for making this one work well.

Dark: Licht und Schatten (2020) Season 3, Episode 6

Complex episode with some key plot moments

[8/10 · 12 May 2024]

This is a difficult one to rate because there is a lot going on and so much information to process.

I understand why some people struggle, because unless you are comfortable with some of the sci-fi concepts portrayed it can feel quite incoherent. The writers apply a certain well known scientific paradox to the sci-fi concepts to help portray certain events. It works well for the convenience of the plot, but it is quite mind boggling. From here on it is hard to get invested in the fate of any characters as who knows what reveal will come next.

Whilst watching it for the first time I admit to having problems processing how every event connects and the depiction of multiple versions of characters, but when I reflect on the episode after rewatching (with the aid of a family tree and notes) I can see how the writers have created a plot that makes sense, but is a challenge to keep up with.

As always the acting by all cast is superb, with Lisa Vicari standing out in this one.

The production values are absolutely superb. In this episode there is some top drawer audiovisual spectacle that is very memorable.

Dark: Leben und Tod (2020) Season 3, Episode 5

Brutal episode

[10/10 · 12 May 2024]

My lasting impression from this one is that it is an ordeal that I find impossible to enjoy due to the content, particularly how it makes certain characters suffer. However, I have to admire the quality of its storytelling and filmmaking.

The writers have been incredibly thorough in crafting a narrative that is not epic in scope compared to certain shows and cinematic franchises, but in its detail it is very much epic. How certain events and individuals influence other characters and link to other situations is brilliantly portrayed.

There are several hard hitting moments and overall the tone is pretty grim. Some characters seriously lack humanity outside basic desire and it leaves you feeling quite bleak.

The acting and production values are exceptionally good as always. The more violent scenes are portrayed in a very disturbing way.

Dark: Der Ursprung (2020) Season 3, Episode 4

More great storytelling

[9/10 · 6 May 2024]

Jonas and alt-Marta connect.

This is another very strong episode with cinematic moments.

As ever the storytelling is detailed with those fantastic connections between characters and events across time. There are a number of standout character moments that hit hard and make previous events and interactions make sense.

Generally the plot unfolds towards a big character reveal that that is quite impactful when it happens. Importantly the filmmakers use good visuals to show this as opposed to have at come in exposition dialogue. This is pretty impressive considering how much dialogue there is generally in the show.

As always there is a tremendous atmosphere generated in all scenes thanks to the cinematography, art design and sounds. The choice of music for the montage sequence is particularly good.

Three Amigos! (1986)

Lips would be fine

[8/10 · 6 May 2024]

Three silent movie stars get drawn into a conflict between a village and an infamous bandito.

¡Three Amigos¡ is a frivolous spoof of The Magnificent Seven and western movies. I think to appreciate it fully it helps be a fan of the lead actors and have an interest in the subject being parodied. Being a child of the eighties (like me) and remembering it from its time of release is a bonus. It certainly does not help to look for "realism" or take any of it seriously.

There are some funny dialogue exchanges and strong sight gags, but I would not describe the comedy as prolific as my favourite John Landis' films such as Animal House, The Blues Brothers, and Trading Places.

I think the performances of Steve Martin, Chevy Chase, Martin Short, Alfonso Arau and Tony Plana enhance the best jokes and make the movie generally enjoyable and entertaining. Comedy as always is in the eye of the beholder so it will depend on your own sense of humour.

Technically, I think it it looks great. The Western settings and costumes are great fun. Landis employs his OTT brand comedy visuals to great effect. I love the recreation of silent era style filmmaking.

It's a 7.5/10 for me, but I round upwards.

Dark: Deja-vu (2020) Season 3, Episode 1

Expands the story very well

[9/10 · 4 May 2024]

Jonas finds himself in unfamiliar territory.

I wondered how the writers were going to keep the story fresh and they do it by following on well from what they introduced at the end of series 2. (As if the narrative was not complicated enough to begin with!)

Most characters have a different perspective placed upon them. This is compelling to watch and intriguing to wonder what will be revealed next. There are also some new individuals introduced, with one being particularly creepy. All actors are on great form and it's hard to pick a standout.

Visually it is excellent, especially as the filmmakers do enough to help the audience distinguish between alternate versions of various characters.

Breaking Bad: Seven Thirty-Seven (2009) Season 2, Episode 1

Strong start to the seconds series

[9/10 · 30 April 2024]

We see the aftermath of the first series finale.

It feels more like a continuation from a mid-season break than a new season, but there are some very memorable moments.

I remember being captivated by the black and white opening when I saw this episode on its initial release. On a rewatch it is not quite the same, but works well in a different way because I know the outcome.

I like that the writers do not move on from how the previous encounter with Tuco ended, but acknowledge the consequences immediately and make it part of the overarching narrative. Plenty of dark humour and a strong sense of paranoia is generated from this, particularly the scenes involving the character Gonzo.

Generally the humour involving the Hank is top drawer as always. His obliviousness to Walt's criminal life is superbly done and his scene with Skyler is fantastic. Dean Norris and Anna Gunn are both awesome in this scene, especially Gunn.

The scenes involving Walt and Jesse are great as always, with both actors on form as ever.

For me it is an 8.5/10, but I round upwards.

Breaking Bad: A No-Rough-Stuff-Type Deal (2008) Season 1, Episode 7

Everything considered a very strong season finale

[8/10 · 30 April 2024]

Walt and Jessie commit to a big production and a baby shower gift causes problems.

I love the black comedy in this one and it starts almost immediately in the school meeting and continues at various points throughout. All the scenes involving people's ignorance to Walt's double life are very funny. I also enjoyed the humorous parts of the meth cooking scene.

All shenanigans relating to the tiara are pretty funny. Not just from an entertainment perspective, but also for character development.

The more serious parts are very well done, particularly Walt's speech for the home movie shot at the baby shower. Bryan Cranston delivers it brilliantly.

There is a very nasty scene towards the end that feels at this point somewhat forced into it to generate fear and revulsion around a particular character, plus to show Walt and Jessie's predicament. It has the desired effect but also makes the victim look very foolish to make that mistake.

The cinematography and art design are excellent as always. I have never seen a more cinematic looking junkyard on screen.

Another high quality episode, especially considering the writers strike at the time.