ahmadz839 Reviews

Mare of Easttown (2021)

A Riveting Small-Town Mystery with a Powerhouse Performance from Kate Winslet

[8/10 · 18 March 2023]

HBO has once again proven its mastery of the prestige television genre with Mare of Easttown, a riveting and nuanced series that transcends the familiar tropes of the small-town murder mystery. Fans of the network's previous small-screen masterworks, such as Sharp Objects and Big Little Lies, shall find themselves within familiar territory.

As this labyrinthine tale unfurls, each episode ascends to new heights, captivating the viewer in its intricate web of intrigue until the ending's staggering revelations.

Brad Ingelsby's script, a deft mix of the familiar and the innovative, refining a well-trodden premise-a murder investigation in a tight-knit community-into a sublime concoction of character study, whodunnit, and poignant exploration of weighty themes. He avoids the pitfalls of sensationalism and cliché, instead creating a richly textured portrait of a place and its people that feels authentic and compelling.

Kate Winslet shines as Mare Sheehan, a flawed but formidable detective who must confront her demons as she investigates a series of crimes that shake her community to its core. Winslet delivers a masterclass performance as 'Mare', skilfully bringing the character to life with exceptional finesse. The supporting cast, including Jean Smart and Evan Peters, come together as a seamless blend of talent, with no hint of inconsistency in their performances.

Every element, each character, feels startlingly real: the inhabitants of this skilfully crafted world are living, breathing souls rather than merely devices in service of the plot, a rare feat in this overcrowded television landscape. In the realm of whodunnits, 'Mare of Easttown' emerges as something special, transcending the banal trappings that so often beleaguer its contemporaries, a cut above the rest, an experience that warrants a watch for any fan of high-quality television. So, dear reader, prepare to be captivated.

Rating: 8.1/10 (Great)

The Last of Us: Look for the Light (2023) Season 1, Episode 9

Brace yourselves

[8/10 · 13 March 2023]

Brace yourselves, dear viewers, for this episode will undoubtedly spark heated debates among fans. Some will love it, while others will loathe it-much like the game itself.

The Last of Us ends with a masterful coup de grâce, cementing this adaptation's place in the pantheon of prestige television.

It is sombre and dark yet replete with emotions that run deep. Joel, at long last, becomes a man of action. Whether his actions are morally defensible, however, is a subject of endless debate.

Staying true to the game, this episode does not falter in its execution, boasting a master-stroke opening that sets the stage for a gripping narrative to unfold. The strategic use of a flashback adds layers of complexity to already richly-wrought characters, serving as a catalyst for some of the most poignant dialogue between Joel and Ellie to date-dialogue sure to leave the audience teary-eyed.

The action is far from glorified, leaving viewers in a state of visceral shock and awe. The last couple of episodes have served to do some fantastic work for Joel, and this episode is the proverbial cherry on top, truly a beautiful and profound culmination of his character arc. Indeed, the show is a thing of beauty, but beauty that is shrouded in darkness.

Were a flaw to be ascribed, it would be that of brevity. At a mere 40 minutes, the finale feels curtailed. The absence of the Cordyceps is understandable, given the laser-focused narrative, though it marks a deviation from the source material.

By turns harrowing and humane, towering and intimate, this finale buries its hooks deeply in the viewer, capping off a brilliant maiden season. Love it or loathe it, impassioned discourse will assuredly abound in the wake of this uncompromising conclusion to the first chapter of The Last of Us.

Rating: 8.5/10 (Great)

The Last of Us: When We Are in Need (2023) Season 1, Episode 8

Has its moments, but there are some serious fumbles.

[8/10 · 6 March 2023]

Ahem, I'm no expert on human anatomy, but that doesn't seem like the optimal point of injection, Ellie 👀

After the rather disappointing seventh episode, I was delightfully taken aback by this episode. Ellie is finally given a chance to shine, facing formidable foes and making tough decisions while simultaneously exhibiting her bravery, resourcefulness, and vulnerability, which had me empathizing with her more than ever before.

I can't help but wonder how much more impactful this episode could have been if it weren't for the detour the series took in the previous episode. The show had been building up momentum, and the previous flashback episode was an unfortunate roadblock that broke the spell.

Ali Abbasi's inaugural foray as a director on this show was a satisfying visual rendition; I'm looking forward to seeing what he does with the season finale. Hopefully, he delivers!

The standout performance, however, belongs to Scott Shepherd, whose portrayal of David was downright diabolical and unhinged, keeping me on the edge of my seat, wondering what malevolent machinations he had up his sleeve.

On the other hand, I'm still not completely sold on Joel's portrayal in the show. He seems too vanilla and uninspiring for my taste.

"When We Are in Need" had its moments, but there were some serious fumbles. Personally, I find the game's take on this chapter to be far superior to what we were served up on the show. Alas, my frustration stems from the writers' obsession with telegraphing everything, a criticism I voiced in the last episode and, lo and behold, remains my chief complaint this time around. This habit diminishes the impact of certain scenes and hampers the audience's engagement.

Nevertheless, this episode was a satisfying precursor to the upcoming season finale, which has me brimming with expectations. With just one episode remaining this season, the interminable wait for season two will surely be gruelling.

Rating: When We Are in Need: 7.5/10 (Good, Slightly Flawed)

The Last of Us: Left Behind (2023) Season 1, Episode 7

An episode that is best left behind? Not quite

[7/10 · 1 March 2023]

"Left Behind", an episode that is best left behind? Not quite, but it is undoubtedly the most disappointing one so far.

One of the major missteps was telegraphing the fate of one of the main characters, a decision that weakened the story's impact and disconnected the viewer from the unfolding drama. Even the attempts to build suspense in the lead-up to the characters' fates proved disappointing. Was the episode mere filler? Not exactly. It did offer a bit of depth to Ellie's character, but it did so at the expense of the show's near-flawless track record.

Unfortunately, neither Storm Reid nor Bella Ramsey possesses the necessary screen presence to truly captivate and hold the audience's attention. The writing and direction both fall short of alleviating this fact, which further detracts from the overall quality of the episode.

The strength of the show has always been its ability to develop complex and engaging characters, and it's disappointing to see it falter at such a crucial juncture, especially after delivering back-to-back brilliance.

Despite its missteps, "Left Behind" doesn't necessarily spell doom for the show. With two episodes still left in the season, I remain hopeful that this misstep is just a minor hiccup in an otherwise stellar series.

Rating: 6.9/10 (It Gets the Job Done, Slightly Flawed)

The Last of Us: Kin (2023) Season 1, Episode 6

Prepare to have your heartstrings pulled

[9/10 · 1 March 2023]

Hooked on this show like an infected on cordyceps fungus-yes, that's a compliment!

Prepare to have your heartstrings pulled, and your emotions wrung out like a dishrag-this is one show that will leave you gutted. A roller-coaster ride of tension and heartbreak throughout. Even after the credits roll, you'll find yourself thinking.

The Last of Us has been praised for its storytelling, but this episode elevates it. It's not just a show about zombies; it's a show about human nature, survival, loyalty and love. It's a show that doesn't shy away from showing the dark side of humanity but also doesn't forget to show its light.

The performances are stellar across the board, especially from Pascal and Ramsey, who have palpable chemistry as Joel and Ellie. Pascal portrays Joel as a stern but caring protector haunted by his tragic past but still willing to risk his life for Ellie. Meanwhile, Bella Ramsey's portrayal of Ellie is improving, capturing the character's spirit and personality in a way that feels authentic to the source material. Their dynamic is heartbreaking yet heartwarming as they slowly bond over their shared experiences and losses.

I would have preferred the last half to have stricter adherence to the source material, but television constraints, I guess. Nevertheless, it still packs a powerful punch that hits you right in the feels. Pedro Pascal, take a bow; what a performance!

With three episodes still to come, it's clear that this show has already made an indelible mark on the world. It's a testament to the power of great storytelling and exceptional acting, cementing its place among the all-time greats. Don't miss this one!

Rating: 8.6/10 (Great)

The Last of Us: Endure and Survive (2023) Season 1, Episode 5

"Endure and Survive" - A Masterpiece of Horror and Emotion

[9/10 · 1 March 2023]

If you thought The Last of Us was a bleak and brutal show before, you haven't seen anything yet. "Endure and Survive" will leave you breathless, shaken, and possibly needing therapy. It will stay with you long after the credits roll.

The writers have created a truly unparalleled experience, cementing the show's place in the pantheon of great television. It's difficult to express in words just how exceptional this episode truly is. It's simply one of the best the show has ever produced, and likely will ever produce.

The real heart of the episode lies in the moments of quiet and intimacy between the characters. We see how these four people share moments of sombre reflection and powerful displays of emotion-a truly poignant and moving adaptation. Kudos to the creators!

It's hard to find the words to do this episode justice-it's a true masterpiece that will be remembered as one of the show's finest moments. No matter where the series goes from here, this episode will remain a shining example of what great television can achieve.

The only flaw I can find in this episode is Joel's inconsistent aim-I'm joking! But it does seem to vary depending on the plot's convenience, haha.

A triumph of television that leaves you breathless and begging for more. It's a reminder of the power of great storytelling and exceptional acting and a testament to the heights the medium can reach when everything comes together just right. Don't miss this one-it's a true gem of the small screen.

Rating: 9.2/10 (Near Perfection)

The Last of Us: Please Hold to My Hand (2023) Season 1, Episode 4

A much needed episode!

[8/10 · 1 March 2023]

In just a single episode, the show addresses the primary grievance I had with it-the relationship between Joel and Ellie. It's a little sad that it took four episodes to get here, but at least we're finally making progress. With each passing moment, the show is starting to feel more and more like the masterpiece it's destined to be.

While the episode is relatively straightforward, it does an excellent job of further developing the world and planting the seeds of a mystery that has piqued my interest. However, Bella Ramsey's acting remains a tad raw around the edges, but with the aid of the writing, Ramsey manages to hold their own. It's a minor quibble in the grand scheme of things, and it doesn't detract from the overall quality of the episode.

This episode of "Joel and Ellie's" was a significant step forward for the show; of course, this is The Last of Us, so don't expect any sentimental mushiness. Joel and Ellie are still two very different people who don't trust each other fully. Joel is still haunted by his past losses and reluctant to get attached to anyone. Ellie is still rebellious and curious about the world she never knew. Their dialogue is sharp and witty but also honest and vulnerable.

As usual, HBO has delivered a masterful adaptation that again proves why they're the king of prestige television. The Last of Us continues to impress with its cinematic quality. The cinematography is stunning, capturing the beauty and horror of this post-apocalyptic world. The tight and tense direction keeps us on edge throughout every scene. HBO has spared no expense in bringing this adaptation to life.

With each passing moment, the show continues to build momentum and establish itself as something special. Get ready to be blown away by what's yet to come-this show is only just getting started.

Rating: 8.3/10 (Great)

The Last of Us: Long, Long Time (2023) Season 1, Episode 3

Take a bow Nick Offerman

[8/10 · 1 March 2023]

In the realm of episodic television, the series' latest instalment has already garnered a reputation as a potential masterpiece. It is also divisive, as it deviates significantly from the source material in some key aspects. While some fans may appreciate the creative liberties taken by the showrunners Neil Druckmann and Craig Mazin, others may feel betrayed by the changes that alter the characters' essence and relationships.

First and foremost, we must talk about Nick Offerman's masterful performance-it's easily the best of his career and a testament to his acting abilities. He brings the character to life in a way that's nothing short of skilful. Offerman delivers a nuanced and layered portrayal in his portrayal of Bill, a gruff and paranoid survivalist who hides his vulnerability behind a mask of cynicism and sarcasm.

Yet, while there is much to admire in the third instalment, I can't help but air out some concerns about the changes made. While I don't mind the alterations to Bill and Frank's storyline-since that is par for the course nowadays-I do mind the portrayal of Ellie by Bella Ramsey. Ramsey's depiction of the character is distant from the Ellie we know and love from the games. The personality traits and characteristics that made Ellie such a complex and interesting character are lost in this adaptation. The acting is tonally inconsistent, lacking in nuance and failing to evoke any sense of empathy from the viewer. Ramsey looks nothing like Ellie from the game, which is not necessarily a problem if she can embody her personality.

The writing is also to blame for not giving the character any complexity or emotion, lacking the fire, bravery, compassion, and vulnerability that made Ellie so real and relatable in the game. Her relationship with Joel also suffers from a lack of development and chemistry. The father-daughter bond that is essential to the story seems to be neglected in the series so far. I hope that these issues will be resolved in the remaining episodes because they are holding back an otherwise superb show.

That said, we're only three episodes in, and there's still plenty of time for the show to course-correct and iron out these issues. While I'm not a purist who only insists on 100 per cent faithful adaptations of the source material, changes must be made with great care and attention to detail.

Rating: 7.8/10 (Good)

The Last of Us: Infected (2023) Season 1, Episode 2

A must-see for anyone who loves great television.

[8/10 · 1 March 2023]

"The Last of Us" continues to impress with its second episode, delivering an hour of tense and emotional television that stays true to the source material.

From the captivating performances of the cast to the highly engaging storytelling, it's not hard to see why this series has quickly become a favourite.

Picking up right where the premiere left off, it delivers on the promise set by the series premiere. From start to finish, a roller-coaster ride of emotion, action, and suspense that will have you on the edge of your seat.

Pascal captures Joel's gruffness and cynicism but with hints of his hidden vulnerability and guilt. While still a little rough around the edges, Ramsey portrays Ellie's curiosity and sassiness well but lacks the much-needed vulnerability.

The writing remains strong, weaving together multiple storylines in an engaging fashion. It's full of heart-wrenching moments that tug at the heartstrings and thrilling action sequences that keep the adrenaline pumping.

The score is haunting. The visuals and sound design bring the environment to life, creating a captivating sense of dread and tension. Neil Druckmann's direction also deserves praise, making great use of the camera to create visually stunning and effective emotional moments. The pacing is also spot on, building tension and suspense in a slow, yet compelling manner and delivering a powerful climax.

The scenes of Boston in ruins are stunningly detailed and bleak. It does not shy away from showing the brutality and gore of this world. Still, it does not revel in it, using violence to illustrate the harshness of survival and the moral dilemmas that come with it, but not glorifying it.

The showrunners Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann have clearly done their homework, as they expertly capture the essence of the game's characters, settings, and story.

With just two episodes under its belt, it's already one of the best shows on television. A thrilling and emotional ride that leaves you wanting more. A must-see for anyone who loves great television.

Rating: 8.5/10 (Great)

Mayor of Kingstown: Never Missed a Pigeon (2023) Season 2, Episode 1

It's back!

[7/10 · 1 March 2023]

The new season of "Mayor of Kingstown"-it's finally here! And it's everything one has come to expect from the show. I remember watching the first season and being completely captivated by it, and now that the second season is out, I can't wait to dive right in.

"Never Missed a Pigeon" seamlessly picks up where the last season concluded, maintaining the same level of tension and thrill.

Directed by Stephen T. Kay, who helmed two of the show's best episodes last season. Yet again, Kay delivers a cinematic experience, showcasing his ability to create an immersive environment.

While not particularly innovative, the script, co-written by Taylor Sheridan and Hugh Erickson, sets the stage for a promising second season. It's an artful balance of exposition and action, skilfully teasing what's to come while also building upon the foundation laid in the previous season.

Jeremy Renner's "Mike McLusky" remains one of the show's most compelling elements. It's exciting to see what new challenges await his character this season.

One noticeable aspect of the premiere episode was the heightened brutality. While the show has never shied away from violence, this episode took things to another level, holding the viewer in suspense and anticipation.

In conclusion, a compelling and uncompromising debut for what looks to be another strong season.

Rating: 7.4/10 (Good)

The Last of Us: When You're Lost in the Darkness (2023) Season 1, Episode 1

Tour de force

[9/10 · 1 March 2023]

The premiere episode of "The Last Of Us," titled "When You're Lost in the Darkness," was nothing short of a tour de force. It exceeded my high expectations and then some, solidifying its place as one of the most promising shows of the year.

As far as video-game adaptations go, "The Last Of Us" hits every nail on the head. Throughout its feature-length runtime, the episode remained riveting and kept you glued to the screen.

A masterclass in storytelling, and every element, from the writing to the direction to the acting-everything-was excellent.

The character development in this show puts almost every other series out there to shame. In just the first episode, you feel a genuine emotional connection to the characters, and their struggles feel all too real. It's a testament to how great writing can be when executed properly.

The world-building and VFX work is stunning and does the video game justice. The post-apocalyptic setting is haunting yet beautiful, with remarkable attention to detail. The cast all fit in perfectly, and even those I was unsure about, like Bella Ramsey, didn't disappoint.

To conclude, the premiere episode of "The Last Of Us" is a work of art, and I can't give enough praise to everyone involved in its creation. Everything is top-notch, from the writing to the direction to the performances, setting a high bar for the rest of the series. A must-watch for both fans of the game and newcomers alike, a true audiovisual feast for the senses!

Rating: 8.6/10 (Great)

Emancipation (2022)

A film fraught with dichotomous aspects

[7/10 · 1 February 2023]

"Emancipation" a film fraught with dichotomous aspects, capable of evoking an ambivalent reaction. On the one hand, its cinematographic composition is nothing short of magnificent, with the renowned cinematographer Robert Richardson once again delivering a feast for the ocular senses. While the aesthetic may not be universally beloved, those who appreciate its magnificence will find themselves in sensory rapture.

However, the film's shortcomings are equally conspicuous. Its script is uninspired, its pace unsteady, and its overall coherence is hampered by an attempt to encompass multiple themes and genres, ultimately resulting in a fragmented presentation that fails to fully realize any of its objectives. Despite these flaws, I find the degree of criticism the film has received to be unjust.

The film's most formidable obstacle was its director, Antoine Fuqua, whose style leaned towards action and survival genre tropes, detracting from the film's intended exploration of slavery and its complexities. Had the film maintained a consistent tonal focus, it might have realized greater success. However, by vacillating between genres, it ultimately presents an underwhelming experience.

There's no denying that it's hard to take Will Smith seriously these days. Still, he executes a commendable performance, imbuing his character with dignity and gravitas, despite the limitations posed by the script.

In conclusion, for those who have not grown weary of slavery-themed films and who relish spectacular cinematography, "Emancipation" presents itself as a worthwhile watch despite the negative critical consensus that has formed around it. Though it may not be without its faults, the film leaves an impression and deserves consideration by those willing to view it through a discerning lens.

Rating: 6.9/10 (Good, It Gets the Job Done, Slightly Flawed)

Jack Ryan: Star on the Wall (2022) Season 3, Episode 8

A Fitting Conclusion

[8/10 · 21 December 2022]

The season ends on a high note with "Star on the Wall," a fitting conclusion to arguably the finest season of "Jack Ryan." Despite some issues with the writing, which has been a consistent problem throughout the show's run, the production values have remained top-notch and helped elevate the material.

While the finale was certainly enjoyable, it's clear that the show could benefit from stronger writing to fully realize its potential as a serious political thriller. Hopefully, future seasons will address this issue and deliver the high-quality storytelling that the show and its talented cast deserve.

Rating: 7.8/10 (Impressive)

Jack Ryan: Moscow Rules (2022) Season 3, Episode 7

A Solid Penultimate Episode

[8/10 · 21 December 2022]

"Moscow Rules" is a solid penultimate episode that demonstrates the show's ability to deliver an enjoyable viewing experience despite its limitations. While this season may not be revolutionary, it has played its hand well, delivering engaging action sequences and high production values that make up for any shortcomings in the writing.

Like the show "Reacher," "Jack Ryan" knows its strengths and works within them, delivering an entertaining, action-packed product. The writing may not always be top-notch, but as an action show, it more than makes up for it with its thrilling set pieces and well-choreographed fight scenes.

Even if it may not be pushing any boundaries, it is a reliable source of entertainment that is sure to please fans of the genre.

Rating: 7.6/10 (Impressive)

Jack Ryan: Ghosts (2022) Season 3, Episode 6

Good

[8/10 · 21 December 2022]

Jack races to the Czech Republic to stop the detonation of the nuclear device Sokol. Petr and Luka's secrets are revealed in a deadly reckoning, and their pasts are unsealed. Jack must act fast; time is of the essence. He races against the clock, determined to succeed in saving the day. His actions are crucial indeed. Jack struggles with all his might to stop the detonation and save the day from the dangers that threaten to fray the peace.

It's a shame that John Krasinski has to deal with criticism for this role because he genuinely brings his A-game, and I find it very believable. However, some cannot look beyond his past and therefore find him unconvincing.

Rating: 7.5/10 (Good)

Our Flag Means Death: Pilot (2022) Season 1, Episode 1

Good Sense of How to Blend Drama with Comedy

[7/10 · 20 December 2022]

I wasn't sure what to expect from "Our Flag Means Death", but the second half of the episode sparked my curiosity. Having seen this, I intend to watch a few more episodes.

The episode's humorous tone mainly stuck out to me. It was nice to watch an entertaining show that didn't try to take itself too seriously and had a good sense of how to blend drama with comedy.

I'm excited to see where "Our Flag Means Death" goes. While the pilot episode didn't give much in terms of plot, it definitely set the stage for what looks to be an entertaining and potentially wild ride.

Rating: 7/10 (Good, It Gets the Job Done)

The Babadook (2014)

A Well-Crafted Film

[7/10 · 20 December 2022]

"The Babadook" is undeniably a well-crafted film. Essie Davis's commanding performance, together with Jennifer Kent's direction, carries the film. Its examination of mental illness and grief, as well as its skilful use of atmosphere and suspense, are other positive aspects.

Yet, despite the film's cleverness, I couldn't help but feel like I had seen it all before. It didn't leave me feeling satisfied after the credits rolled, although I recognize that this is more of a personal issue and many others seem to have a different reaction to the film.

Despite my own lack of satisfaction with "The Babadook," it's clear that it has many strengths.

Ultimately, if you enjoy psychological horror films with a deep emotional core, you may find The Babadook a compelling and memorable viewing experience, but it's just not for me.

Rating: 7/10 (Good, It Gets the Job Done)

From (2022– )

It's far from bad, but it's also not particularly noteworthy.

[7/10 · 19 December 2022]

As a fan of "Lost," I was intrigued when I heard that some of the same people were involved in the new EPIX series "From." Unfortunately, the show doesn't live up to the expectations set by "Lost." While it starts off incredibly promising and has a unique feel, the lazy writing and subpar acting hold it back as the season progresses.

The unforgiving gore and genuine horror element that the show first offers are among its most distinctive features, but even these begin to wear thin as the season progresses. By the time I finished the first season, I couldn't help but feel underwhelmed.

Although a second season is in the works, "From" barely does enough to keep me returning for more. I would probably tell my past self not to watch it if I could go back in time.

Even though I'm drawn in by the mystery, I'm worried about the show's future. The writing is reminiscent of J. J. Abrams; the writers are adding mysteries at whim with no idea how to resolve them. Intriguing at first, but the poor writing soon began to sour the experience.

If you enjoy mysteries, you might want to give "From" a shot, but be aware that it features subpar acting and a superfluous plot that will make you lament the wasted opportunities. It's far from bad, but it's also not particularly noteworthy given the calibre of television we've been spoilt by in 2022.

Season One: 6.6/10 (Fair)

From: Oh, the Places We'll Go (2022) Season 1, Episode 10

Pessimistic About the Show's Future

[7/10 · 19 December 2022]

The season finale left me feeling torn. On the one hand, the show's premise is certainly intriguing, and the mystery has been building throughout the season. I found it intriguing at first, but I've come to suspect the writers may be in over their heads, leaving me feeling pessimistic about the show's future.

I want to be proven wrong, but it seems like the writers are trying to emulate J. J. Abrams' style of tacking on mysteries without any clear plan for resolving them, which has ultimately made for an inconsistent and frustrating viewing experience.

The episode itself wasn't very memorable or special. Like the rest of the series, this episode raised more questions than it addressed.

Ten episodes in, and other than getting to know the characters, we're still where we started in terms of the mystery; this isn't an indication of good writing, as answers should lead to more questions, but having no answers isn't a sign of good writing. At least if the story had begun from Boyd's point of view rather than the Matthews' family, there would have been some progression in the plot.

So far, it's been squandered potential, but the radio response and the lighthouse promise a potentially intriguing second season, so here's hoping we get a better one.

Rating: 6.6/10 (Fair, Above Average)

From: Into the Woods (2022) Season 1, Episode 9

Underwhelming

[6/10 · 19 December 2022]

The penultimate episode, "Into the Woods", was rather disappointing. While it's certainly not the worst episode of the season, it falls flat as a standalone episode. It feels like filler that has no place in a 10-episode season, and as a whole, it comes across as underwhelming.

One of the most frustrating aspects of this episode is that the characters seem more focused on building a tower to broadcast a signal that might not even work rather than finding Victor, who is clearly the most knowledgeable about what's happening. It makes them look dumb, which isn't the writers' goal, I'm sure. Oddly, not even Donna is concerned about him, and Julie, who he saved, doesn't say a single word about him either!

The episode is not without its share of intriguing moments, though. Tabitha's dream felt very "Lost"-like, and I can't help but wonder what the numbers meant. I, too, am intrigued by Julie's bottom-of-the-hole discovery (presumably Victor). He did say the faraway trees can transport you to all kinds of weird places.

To make matters worse, Tabitha was dismissive of Ethan's plan to arrange the images because they weren't suitable for him. Even while I see her point of view, she could have done without enlisting Ethan's assistance. The idea is sound, and the drawings look like they have some clues about what is going on.

Finally, Boyd and Sara's tent being attacked, and the lights flashing in what I assume is still the night, raises some interesting questions. With the sounds and everything, it seems like they are near some lighthouse. Will Boyd's earlier mention of a boat tie into that?

It's safe to say that the last episode has been set up with a lot of potential excitement. Hopefully, they'll be able to move the plot forward this season rather than just putting everything off till next year.

Rating: 6.3/10 (Above Average)

From: Broken Windows, Open Doors (2022) Season 1, Episode 8

Belonged Earlier in the Season

[7/10 · 19 December 2022]

"Broken Windows, Open Doors," the eighth episode, was a much-needed slow burn that belonged earlier in the season. Harold Perrineau puts in a solid performance as Boyd, finally bringing some life to the character and making it the first performance that felt noteworthy in the show.

This episode does a beautiful job of tying together all the plot points from previous episodes. Though there was room for improvement, I was pleased with the writing; it bodes well for the series' future.

Seeing the characters settling their differences and making smart decisions was refreshing. For the first time, I felt an emotional connection to the characters, making it the most promising episode in terms of character growth.

It's almost intolerable to watch Jim, the show's worst character. One can only hope that he will soon change or that someone will finally confront him.

This episode's flashbacks were skilfully executed, but it's crucial to strike a healthy balance and avoid overusing them. The nods to "Lost" are a nice touch, but one hopes they stay that way and the show doesn't follow in "Lost's" footsteps.

Overall, this was a good setup episode, and hopefully, the rest of the season can wrap up nicely.

Rating: 7.2/10 (Good, It Gets the Job Done)

From: All Good Things... (2022) Season 1, Episode 7

The Most Promising Episode Since the Pilot

[7/10 · 19 December 2022]

Episode seven, "All Good Things," completely surprised me. This has been the most promising episode since the pilot, and my optimism for the show has been restored.

The colony house was a ticking time bomb, so I'm not too shocked by the events that transpired there. Regardless, it was still a fantastic sequence. I'm a little bummed that "From" seems to be shifting its focus from the genuine horror of its earlier episodes to the mystery now, but if it's done well, I won't mind.

Now that the bulk of the exposition has been covered, the show can hopefully build on this episode's success and continue to impress as the first season comes to a close. I appreciate how the show's monsters have depth beyond simply killing and are motivated by other factors. Discovering their true agenda will be intriguing.

While some characters are dumbed down unnecessarily, I love all the exciting possibilities "From" offers. As an aside, I'm curious as to whether or not the boy in white is related to the boy Father Khatri failed. Since Father Khatri remarked on the boy's innocence, we can assume that the choice of all-white attire was not coincidental. I can't wait to see where the show takes us next.

Rating: 7.2/10 (Good)

From: Silhouettes (2022) Season 1, Episode 5

Dragging along without offering much new.

[6/10 · 19 December 2022]

The fifth episode, "Silhouettes", was a mixed bag for me. While the show has been slow to start, with barely anything happening halfway through, this episode was the biggest culprit of dragging along without offering much new.

Nevertheless, I am excited to see what Boyd's "big swing" will be, and with Victor having dug all those graves last episode, it seems like bloodshed is imminent.

I noticed something: so far, Toby and Ethan have been the ones the voices have targeted, urging Sara to kill. Could it be the voices sense danger from them? Toby was Jade's friend, and Ethan is connected to the mysterious Child in the woods, who appears to be offering assistance.

Even though this episode was a letdown, I'm still looking forward to seeing where the show goes and what will happen next.

Rating: 6.2/10 (Fair)

From: A Rock and a Farway (2022) Season 1, Episode 4

It Gets the Job Done

[7/10 · 19 December 2022]

The horror is put on hold while the family drama takes centre stage. Although this helps flesh out the characters, the family is the least engaging part of the show, so I would prefer if their story was kept to a minimum. Moreover, they built up tensions in this episode that could have been avoided with better communication, and I hope that the lack of communication among the characters isn't used to artificially fill in the runtime.

Boyd's kid and Fatima's overly friendly relationship with the colony house's new resident, Julie, is unsettling. There is something not quite right there, but we'll see. Let's hope that, this show doesn't start abusing flashbacks trying to imitate "Lost."

I didn't mind this episode, but I wish they'd return to the central mystery soon. Victor, Boyd, and Jade stand out as the most compelling characters and are the only ones who seem to move the story forward when they are on-screen.

Rating: 6.9/10 (It Gets the Job Done, Slightly Flawed)

1923: 1923 (2022) Season 1, Episode 1

Despite some bumps in the premiere, I'm optimistic for the rest of the season.

[7/10 · 19 December 2022]

Anything from Taylor Sheridan is always worth checking out, and he rarely disappoints. "1923" is off to a promising start with its premiere. As is customary for works by Sheridan and director Ben Richardson, the show features a strong cast, good screenplay, and gorgeous cinematography.

I'm delighted to see that they brought back Isabel May to narrate. She did a terrific job in "1883", and I have no doubt she will deliver yet another spellbinding performance.

However, the episode wasn't perfect. The story didn't quite pull me in right away. It moved around a lot while introducing new characters. This was necessary, of course, but it made the episode feel a little disjointed at times. Moreover, the animal CGI was subpar, particularly in the episode's closing minutes.

I'm excited to see how the story unfolds and can't wait to see Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren deliver some great performances. Despite some bumps in the premiere episode, I'm optimistic for the rest of the season.

Rating: 7.5/10 (Good)