eclarkdog Reviews

Special Ops: Lioness (2023– )

Very Pleasantly Surprised

[9/10 · 11 May 2024]

It's excellent...watch it! Although different in many ways, if you liked Homeland, you should like Lioness. Zaldana is amazing. The story and script are tight and exciting, and the show gets better with each episode until you reach a very satisfying finale. I enjoyed the personal aspects of the show as well such as Cruz's back story early, and the ongoing problem's with Joe's (Zaldana) family, and the balance of her career.

A lot of familiar actors, including a good Kidman even though she is losing control of her face, and some new faces like the actresses playing Cruz and Aaliyah. Anyone who does not like this show just does not like spy/special ops stuff, or has some kind of social issue. Season 2 has just been greenlit, so there will be more.

Fallout (2024– )

Prime Nailed It

[10/10 · 13 April 2024]

Fallout should go done as one of the best, if not the best, game adaptions to screen. Binge-worthy confection that even those unfamiliar with the game should enjoy. The aesthetics are the future envisioned as if from a 1950's perspective.

Goggins and Purnell shine in their respective roles, with Purnell bringing a surprising comedic naivete to her performance. Goggins is just perfection in what is essentially playing two characters (though same person).

Fallout has some interesting cameos through the season. Prime went all out on this show. The production values are top notch, movie level. The humor is dark and well timed. But I'd say the best thing that Amazon did with Fallout is really capture the feel, atmosphere and spirit of the original game. I'm excited for more season and full expect there to be more.

The Equalizer 3 (2023)

Thoroughly enjoyable

[8/10 · 13 January 2024]

I'm a bit surprised by the lowish rating. I found this third entry better than E2. Fanning and DW have a good screen chemistry after all these years since she was a child actress. Her role is really rather small, but adds a nice personal touch to the story, and their brief screen time is well done.

Beautiful scenery, some brutal action, and a concise plot make for a very watchable action flick. I see quite a few reviews here saying the movie is boring. I don't get it. I was thoroughly entertained. Nothing is overly drawn out here. In fact, imo I would have liked to have spent more time in this beautiful Italian town getting to know the denizens a bit better.

The opening sequence to the movie is excellent and sets up the plot. Denzel does his thing with a satisfy offing of the baddies and make the life of the good people better. It is everything you want from an Equalizer movie.

The Killer (2023)

Good but not for everyone

[8/10 · 11 November 2023]

If you are expecting a whiz-bang and action packed movie about assassins, this one may not be for you. Fincher's "The Killer" is a slow and methodic thriller. The audience is not spoon fed plot, context, and dialogue. In fact, the movie has little actual dialogue except for some specific scenes. Instead, the story is told primarily from the mind of Fass's character.

Basically, the movie starts out during one of our hero's missions and proceeds from there, as if we are dropped right into the middle of a story. It may get a touch confusing at times, as we are given no pretext or exposition on what is going on with the main character. Fass primarily narrates the story throughout but most of that narration is semi-poetic musings about what it means to be an assassin - his methods and routines - or asides about the current situation he is in.

I found it not too hard to figure out what is going on and keep up with the flow of the plot and characters but, again, nothing is really spelled out directly. The recurring theme to me, not that I'm even correct in this at all, was whether or not the assassin, played by Fass, had a soul. Was he purely evil. He does have "people", and those people affect the plot in a certain way, but we are not given much context as to who and what they mean to him. I wish I had a little bit more context there, but as with the movie as a whole, I believe Fincher wanted it that way. It works well enough.

The movie does have a few really good action sequences - one in particular is quite strong - so it is not inert. And Swinton's small appearance is perfectly Swintonesque - she is just great in everything she does.

IMO "The Killer" is a solid movie. I think a 7 is about right. However, I would expect some folks not to like it - the movie is not for short attention spans. It is not genius either. I did find it an interesting, entertaining and even, at times, mesmerizing slow burn.

Gen V (2023– )

Surprisingly Good

[8/10 · 30 September 2023]

I'm older so was very concerned this would be too YA for me, but I gave the first episode a chance and ended up watching all 3 released episodes. The show has the same feel of Boys, but a bit more serious and less outright comical - although there are some very funny bits.

I see a lot of complaints about the lead actress - who is very pretty by the way. I see comments like she is unlikeable. However, if you watch all 3 released epis you will see her character evolve and evolve again. Give her a chance. Her power is quite bizarre. The manifestation of it is a horror. However, it has some interesting applications that one might not see at first until it is used. I believe her and the girl playing her roommate, are actresses to watch out for in the future.

In fact, the young cast as a whole, all unknown to me, are very solid. The blond who dates Golden Boy (played by Arnie's son) stood out to me as well, as does the guy who plays the Magneto-like supe.

Clancy Brown has a small but important role with this one soliloquy that was excellently done, and just evil.

If you like The Boys, then I don't see why you would not like this show.

Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves (2023)

Best Game Movie ever!

[9/10 · 20 May 2023]

I honestly can't think of one negative thing to say about this movie. Although it likely won't, I could see this getting an Oscar nomination - it is that good. I can't think of any movie based on a game that was even remotely of this good. To top off the quality across the board, the movie was genuinely funny without being cheesy at all.

Special nod to Sophia Lillis' shape-changing character that provides some of the best/brilliant action sequences in the movie. And her strongest beast is a hybrid creature that is both hilarious and cool.

Must watch for D&D fans, of course. My experience with D&D is primarily from some video games, so I did get quite a few references here. But any fantasy or general adventure movie fan should absolutely enjoy this movie.

Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood (2019)

Absolutely Brilliant on all Levels

[10/10 · 13 May 2023]

For some reason, I just haven't had access to stream this movie since it's release. I rarely go to theatres so missed it originally. I finally watched it on Starz last night with a temp subscription. Shocked that this movie came out almost 4 years ago now - thought it was more recent.

I'm not going to say much, but this movie instantly hit my top 10, if not top 5, movies of all time. Best QT movie ever, or at least on par with PF - both PF and this movie are masterpieces imo. Best and most unique performance by Brad Pitt, who I always like, but he usually seems to play the same role. Previously, I considered DeCaprio's performance in Django Unchained his best, but this is right on par if not better.

This is a movie about a time, a place, and an era - or rather transition of eras. In a way, it's also about the profession of acting. So many nuances throughout the film that it is certainly worth multiple views.

So many great scenes, but I especially want to highlight a scene, or rather series of scenes, involving DeCaprio and a little girl actress in a film he is shooting. The interchange between these two is just beyond genius. The little girl really shines here as well. So hilarious but moving too.

Having seen this, I'd definitely say it should have won Best Picture in 2020, and I'd say likely the best picture in the last 10 to 15 years.

Daisy Jones & The Six (2023)

Good Nostalgic Drama

[8/10 · 4 March 2023]

I ate up the first three episodes last night. Kept thinking of Fleetwood Mac, and maybe a bit of Jefferson Airplane if there are any comparisons. I think this show will mainly attract an older crowd, or simply music lovers.

The show starts in the sixties when all the members are kids and progresses until the two forces (band and Keough's character) finally unite around '74, which is around about when Mac had their success when Nicks and Buckingham joined.

====Rewriting rest of review now that I've completed the series After completion, my rating for this series is as strong as ever. Just an overall very enjoyable series following the highs and lows of a '70s supergroup and their internal disintegration at the height of the fame (well actually they probably could have achieve much more). We know from the beginning of the first episode that things are not going to go wells simply as we are told just that in text. It's how we arrive to the fateful point that is...well..the point.

I've not read the book and, honestly, I'd take most negative reviews from readers of the book with a grain of salt - and I think plenty of book readers enjoyed this too. IMO, the show is a very solid rock drama that filled a void for me that I did not even know existed.

The revelation for me was Riley Keogh. I know who she "is" and I've seen her in several things before, but nothing that really highlighted her true talent (and up to this point I thought her talent might be quite limited). She really shines as Daisy with increasing intensity and diversity as the show progresses. My only complaint is how the character is written in her younger years compared to say the bands development. Daisy is assumed to have talent but does basically nothing at all - other than mainly personal dramas - until she is united with the band. Of course, when they unite it is magic. I just though that Daisy should have had at least some minor success as a musician before the band.

The band sub-plots are interesting and entertaining though not nearly as developed. However, they all serve a specific purpose toward the ultimate disintegration, of which I was a bit surprised. The reasons for the implosion are not quite what you may thinking early on.

The key point I want to make here though is that there is more to this "Daisy and the Six" than just the drama. It's a story about the time, the music and how music - and especially songs - are made and wrapped up in the surrounding drama and experiences rather than just being clinical. Brilliant bands have come and gone in a snap, while some have endured for decades. I believe the point here is that for some of these short-lived magical bands it is not just one thing that leads to a break-up.

Anyway, the fate of the band is clearly not going to end well. This is not a spoiler and transparent from the first second, and the trailer. However, the ending throws in a couple of surprises and shock that are both emotional and yet give us something to hold on to as well.

See How They Run (2022)

I was entertained

[7/10 · 5 November 2022]

Seems like a lot of mixed reviews here. Regardless I found this movie to be an entertaining little confection. I'd classify this mystery/comedy as a homage to Christie without directly following typical Christie techniques. Interestingly, the mystery centers around a theatrical production of "The Mousetrap", with murders and action taking place primarily in and around the theatre.

Rockwell and Ronan particularly stand out here, with a special nod to Ronan for her performance as a somewhat ditzy, yet competent, young police officer. She seems most committed to her performance here and has the best lines IMO. She made me laugh the most here. Shirley Henderson does a nice job as Christie herself in a brief appearance.

"Run" is not a silly slapstick type comedy, nor is it generally laugh out funny, although there are a couple of moments that are so, and overall the movie gradually relies less on the comedic aspects. However, there is plenty of subtle humor here with Ronan providing much of the laughs simply by her character's dialogue and personality.

Rockwell and Ronan have solid chemistry. Early on the relationship appears more of an unwitting mentor (Rockwell) to a very eager mentee (Ronan), with Rockwell's character gradually gaining more respect for his protégé. Romantic inclinations are not emphasized here much at all, but may be implied by the end.

In typical Christie fashion, the mystery provides a bit of a twist or surprise, as well as misdirects, when the culprit is finally revealed. At least, for me, I did not figure things out on my own.

Overall, "Run" is not a classic by any means, but otherwise a solid little mystery movie that I think most would find entertaining.

The Old Man (2022– )

Sublime

[10/10 · 18 June 2022]

I was interested in this show the moment I first heard about it a month or so ago. My assumption was that the show would be very good. Little did I know that it would surpass my expectations and then some.

Honestly, the more I got into the first episode, the more I felt like I was watching a movie. Well better yet I just forgot I was watching a tv show. Jeff Bridges is Jeff Bridges. Nothing more needs to be said other than he is just great. Then you got John freakin' Lithgow and a...still...fine looking Amy Brenneman. A surprise appearance by Papa Jennifer Grey.

Great cast and great acting. What more needs to be said. Oh...that great cast is not what makes this show great. What makes it great is a stellar script and stellar direction. Let me put it this way, you will not quite expect what happens from one moment to the next..and much of that is simply mental gymnastics.. (This is just the first two episodes released!).

But wait, that is not all. The first episode is basically closed by one of the best scuffles since Daredevil season one. And yes, that scuffle includes the character played by Jeff Bridges. Scuffle also includes a utility vehicle and a couple of dogs.

Wow, sounds exciting and fast-paced, no? Actually it's fairly slow-paced and a bit moody. It's superb.

The Essex Serpent (2022)

Good period drama..

[8/10 · 17 May 2022]

I watched the first 2 released epis of The Essex Serpent (on AppleTV). Set in Victorian England (circa 1893?) around London and Essex, the show is superbly shot and acted. Danes does a good job affecting an English accent, and I forgot about it after the first 5 or 10 minutes. This show may not be for everyone, as it is slow-paced and a bit moody/dreary. However, if like me, you like period pieces that do a great job with its setting, then this one might be for you. It's based on a book I've never read or even heard of. There's bit of Vicky era science going on here, both medical and paleo, with a touch of theology and superstition of the time (and maybe a bit of politics as well). The Serpent of the tile is sort of a Nessy type. (although heard it's not seen in the first 2 epis)

1883 (2021–2022)

Know nuthin bout no Yellowrocks but this is great!

[10/10 · 22 December 2021]

Well, actually, I have recently heard of Yellowstone but still can't figure out how to watch it. I can watch 1883 on demand on my streaming service, so I watched both episodes tonight.

I love Westerns and period dramas regardless, but these first two episodes were as close to perfection as I've seen anywhere lately. Great characters, acting, Sam Elliot at his most seasoned best, an incredible script, a couple of very very surprising cameos, and an enchanting young lead actress.

Pardon my ignorance here. I know of Faith Hill and Tim McGraw as singers, though country is not my thing, and I think I've heard of them doing some acting. So I was pleasantly surprised that they are in fact very capable actors.

Just all around fantastic show so far. I hope and expect it to continue the excellence. I have nothing negative to say about 1883 at all. If you like Westerns and a bit of American History, then this is a must watch.

Cowboy Bebop (2021)

Are you entertained?

[9/10 · 24 November 2021]

I've heard of the "Cowboy Bepop" anime but never seen it, so this is all new to me. The show seems to be getting very mixed reviews from both critics and viewers.

My usual numero uno criteria in gauging the merit of a show is whether I'm entertained. CB seems to be getting knocked for all the same reasons a movie or show gets knocked over the source material. Granted, for me this is all a clean slate, but I can't understand how anyone could not be entertained by this show. I've seen 7 episodes so far and I'd rate it "binge-worthy". It's funny, action-packed, extremely violent, great characters - both main and side, and with a touch of drama to boot. Plus, the jazz score is excellent. Oh, and really cute, and smart, pup.

I especially like how the show mixes the futuristic with retro stuff. I assume the source was similar in this regard. One minute you are in space or some futuristic setting, and the next your on the streets of New Tijuana or in some neo-noir nightmare. CB is a wonderful genre mish-mish.

I've been entertained, have you?

Edited 12/17/21: The show is now canceled and I think all these anime CB fans really shot themselves in the foot for all their whining, complaining, and rating dumping. Now we have no more of this great show and universe. Really disappointing.

The Wheel of Time (2021– )

Not too bad so far.... (amended review)

[5/10 · 20 November 2021]

I've finished the 1st season of WOT. I'm now amending my review and changing/lowering my rating. (My original review was after a couple of episodes)

Not too much to add here. The show continued to disappoint me as the season progressed. Ultimately, I think tinytots review really hit the nail on the head here. Basically, WOT the show spent to much time adding new things/ideas rather than focusing on what the books had to offer. The new things did not work for me, and resulted in the canon aspects of WOT getting far to short a shrift.

Regardless, I just found that the series just got really lazy when it came to the writing and production. The "Ways" were just a blink and miss affair. Min introduced later and in the wrong setting, only to make her auguring so unpoetic and obvious. Min, btw, is an important character and one of the more charismatic in the books.

The final episode just left me wanting. I found myself watching but not really caring about what was going one, even though I knew the story. Any emotional weight to the story had long been squeezed out by the poor writing. I believe they made a huge mistake just having an 8 episode season for book 1. Just cheap and lazy stuff here. Season 2 is already greenlit, but I'm not certain I will watch.

===========Original Review Below========================== First off, as I've seen this mistake made in a few reviews. Robert Jordan passed away about 14 years ago from a heart disease. Of course, he is credited as a writer, but he obviously had no involvement in this series.

I've read the first 3 books in the series a few years ago. I like the books ok, but they have not "grabbed" me as much as some others. I plan to continue eventually, but have been sidetrack by other things for some time. Point is, I'd not say I'm a true WoT fan yet, coming into the TV series with a very open mind.

Another thing I'd mention as well is I'm highly disappointed by all the anti-woke reviews on here. First off folks, this is fantasy - it's a different world and history. I don't recall Jordan making any references to race in his series, so there is plenty of license here to cast the show. Second, this is just the way it is now so get used to it. Anti-woke reviews are pointless and non-constructive - find something better to do with your time.

With that said, I think the cast is ok for the most part and generally a fine looking bunch. Rosamund Pike is the obvious star - I've always been quite fond of her myself - and she apparently is the Producer as well. Other than her, the rest of the cast is fairly unknown, with a familiar face here or there. Pike is a standout and very suited to the role of Moraine. I really like the actress playing Nynaeve. She embodies the character well and seems the best actress among the new young bunch here. The guy playing Mat is pretty good too. The all important Rand dude is taking some time to grow on me. My one complaint is Egwene - I just think the actress is not pretty enough in the role, though I'm starting to like her as an actress. Perrin is not as I imagine him but maybe he'll grow on me. Lastly, Merillyn, just recently introduced in episode 3, is not as I imagined him at all, but the actor, who is vaguely familiar, is good. Oh, and Lan is very good.

Besides that stuff, the story so far is fairly true to the book. Not sure the reasoning behind Perrin having been married - don't recall that but maybe I'm wrong. But the plot is quite accurate.

However, some things have been left out and I think that is one of them more negative aspects of the show. Now, I realize that a series based on books so rich and deep cannot include everything, but there are some missing parts that could have added some charm/intrigue and make the series really standout from others. One example occurs in the dead city where they meet this really interesting character, who actually seemed somewhat important to the plot. Not sure how they will handle that now, but it was a very interesting event that would stand out from the otherwise formulaic stuff. I just hope they don't cut out to much stuff. There's a very interesting character - a girl - they should meet in the next episode or two, or at least this season, but I could also see her being cut.

Lastly, I think overall the show looks nice, but some of the effects are a bit subpar. I don't particularly like the Trollocs. I guess they do look much how described in the book, but they feel a bit cheaply done.

Anyway, the show is certainly watchable and good enough to get in that fantasy fix. It's lighter than SOIAF(GoT), as were the books, and the production value is below GoT, but it is more the sufficient.

The Defeated (2020)

End of 1st episode left me baffled..

[5/10 · 20 September 2021]

I've watched one episode. I thought the premise was highly interesting, and once I started watching, I was impressed with the production. Show is incredibly shot, really taking me back to the period. Quite a unique premise of a time and topic that gets little attention. Anyway, I thought I was in for a pretty neat historical drama.

My first concern was when our hero (Kitsch) starts searching for his missing brother, who just happens to have gone AWOL near Berlin during WWII. Seems like the bro bit is a secondary storyline to the main plot. However, at the end of the 1st episode we get a shocking and melodramatic revelation that seems tied to what was apparently a minor thread. Sorry, but it just did not work for me, and seemed so out of place to what this show was seemingly about. Plenty of stuff to keep this show interesting and thrilling, without going in "that" bizarre direction.

Really a shame, as almost every aspect of the show seemed excellent. Great cast with Hall, Middleton, and even some German actors that, although I can't name, I'm familiar with from other shows.

I may try the second episode at some point just to see if it is worth continuing, but the bro subplot really turned me off.

Big Sky (2020–2023)

Guilty pleasure type of show

[6/10 · 20 May 2021]

It's 5/19/21 and I've just binged a few episodes of this series in the ABC app. I've not watched a major network series in some years, probably the last being the first couple of seasons of The Blacklist. I've streamed exclusively for many years, and watched a great deal of non-American shows/movies. I caught an ad for this show's finale a couple of days ago somewhere. I'd never heard of it and was intrigued by the premise, and the fact Winnick is in it. (Honestly, Kathryn is not particularly a very good actress but I liked her in Vikings and kinda always found her attractive) Anyway, I read some reviews here first which were not all that glowing, but gleaned a few things from them to read between the lines and give the show a chance - again, I found the premise interesting.

I've watched about 6 episodes, which appears to be about a third of the complete first season (assuming that there will be a second..I've no clue if this show is a success). The first thing that struck me was the acting was pretty basic, as others have mentioned, including Phillipe (I did not know he was even in this). Mind you, the acting is passable for the most part, but some of the smaller support roles are pretty bad. Still, there are some standouts as well, including John Lynch (who has been in tons of things..he's "that guy".. ha) playing the State Trooper. Geraghty is excellent as Ronald, and well Ronald is Ronald. Oh ..and Ronald's Mother is excellent too. The actress playing the youngest sister. And Cassie, the actress I'm not familiar with but she really seems to be the main character here, or its both her and Winnick's character, but Cassie seems a bit deeper and more developed.

So overall I've found it entertaining enough to keep watching. There's a bit soapiness mixed in which is not my thing, but I just deal with it as the main plotline is strong enough. As someone in another review mentioned, it seemed the show should have been a shorter limited series. I'm six episodes in and even from the second episode I kept thinking to myself, how did they make 17 episodes out of this. The baddies are very good here and really what drives my interest. However, the problem with Big Sky is the main characters are really not all that interesting. I thought in addition to what is a rather dark crime show, we'd get a real feel for Montana and it's denizens, but other than some occasional camera work, the show is not all that charming outside the mystery. I think that was a major miss here. Here's another way to look at it, it like they dropped off a bunch of Grey's Anatomy types in Montana and said "have at it". (to be clear, not referring to the bad guys)

So, to point, the show is not as smart as it thinks it is, but it's competent enough to entertain folks that like a bit of a creepy crime thriller. Giving it a 6 rating for now.

An Education (2009)

Excellent film and quite funny

[10/10 · 15 April 2021]

For some reason, as much as I love Carey Mulligan, I've never seen this film until now. It's popped up now and then over the years in my queue on streaming services, and I always say I'm going to watch it, but never do. I think it's one of those things where one has a sub-conscious impression of what a film or show is about, but not quite in the mood for it at the moment - then it passes you by.

"Education" is billed as a drama. However, I was surprised at just how much humor it contained. Not like slapstick/silly kind of stuff, but a droll English humor that's sometimes subtle and sometimes not so much. Really the film is quite light-hearted for much of it, with certainly some touching dramatic and emotional bits. Yet it's not heavy at all. Really the film is quite entertaining and will leave with a smile at the end - with maybe a tear or two in-between. I've not genuinely laughed consistently watching a film in some time.

Baffled by some of the reviews here after a quick scan. Most were great but I saw a lot of skeptics. The setting was early sixties-ish. Different time and place. Things that happened in the film could certainly happen then, even to the brightest of girls...and well, in a different respect it happens now too.

Mulligan is flat splendid and so deserving of her nomination. Alfred Molina is big standout as well and absolutely hilarious. Pike will make you laugh several times as well in her small role. Also, a nod to Olivia Williams for small role. Saarsgard did a fine job as well, though I think the part would have been better with an actual Englishman.

Highly recommend this film.

Wonder Woman 1984 (2020)

Holy Mother of Gawd

[3/10 · 26 December 2020]

That was a hot pile of garbage.

I'll keep this simple. It's not the actors, which are fine in and of themselves. The story is just complete nonsensical rubbish. And to top it off, the worst Reagan impersonator in the history of impersonations. The opening few scenes are fine, and then the whole movie starts to dreadfully go downhill fast. I think it started with the return of "Steve Trevor" and then regressed by a plot with no progression...or sense...or empathy.

The Queen's Gambit (2020)

A bonafide Perfect 10

[10/10 · 29 October 2020]

No inflated ratings here. The series is perfect in every way. Sometimes a rare show or movie comes a long where you just want to savor every second of it, and when it is over you feel bad that you watched it as you wish you could see it all over again fresh.

It really does not even matter if you care about chess or even understand it. Chess is an old and esteemed game but the club is rather small . I just have a cursory understanding of the game myself from very casual play as a child, where one learns how the pieces move and you play with other kids with no strategy at all.

The series production takes a very interesting approach to the actual "chess" action. In all, there's really not much direct chess action, but almost every game is choreographed differently, from the setting and music to the surrounding atmosphere or "goings on". To point, during the key games you see more of what's going on around the game than the game itself. It's like the director knew that most folks don't want to watch a show about people moving chess pieces across a board. Yet, all the suspense and drama is captured perfectly and it is fascinating.

Mostly though, 'Queen's Gambit' is a human story. A coming of age drama about a girl coming from a difficult background, who just happens to be a genius and a prodigy. It's this development and progression from an early age, and the struggles along the way, that really captures your heart. All played wonderfully by a beautiful and talented up-and-coming (or has she arrived) actress in Taylor-Joy. I was already familiar with Joy from movies like "The Witch" , "Split", and some smaller stuff, but I think this is the work that will skyrocket her. The supporting cast also does an excellent job here, but this is Taylor-Joy all the way and she rocks it.

Overall, this series is very uplifting. It touches on some darker subjects related to her childhood and addictions but, in my opinion, never enters truly melodramatic territory. And I think that works well here. The ending is fantastic....and yet very down to earth.

Do not hesitate....watch. I can't recommend this enough. Best thing I've seen on the small screen in a long time, and I'd go so far to say that this is the best Netflix Original to date.

2:22 (2017)

Nope..just does not work

[5/10 · 13 September 2020]

Ok...the movie is watchable for most part. Other than the production values, which are quite decent, there's no one piece or part of this movie that really stands out. At most it an average distraction for a viewer.

I came by this on Hulu. Familiar with Huisman and Palmer, but did my due diligence by reading some user reviews. The reviews obviously are quite mixed, but I'm always willing to give a small movie a chance and read between the lines, so to speak, analyzing reviews to find enough reason to watch.

Huisman and Palmer do an okay job here. Both are attractive actors. I've especially enjoyed some prior performances of Palmer's, but I find Huisman lacking in the charisma department - even on GOT. It's not that he's a bad actor per se but, in my opinion, he's just missing something that makes for a good lead actor. Still, as far as leads go, the two are more the passable. I can't say the same for the supporting roles.

The real problem with 2:22 is the story. It's ultimately just rather weak. I was somewhat engagedin the first half as we are introduced to the pair and the burgeoning love story. Meanwhile, Huisman's character encounters some strange coincidences that entail possible supernatural or sci-fi elements at work. But all this really leads to a whole bunch of nothing. There's no weight or context behind the story. A+B+C+whatever = 0. Coincidence and eerie connections between past and present events gain more traction as the movie progresses, but there is no payoff here, no emotional anchor.

I felt nothing at the end - empty, if you will, like I just passed the time. 2:22 at its core is a romance that tries to be something more and fails at both. Thus, I can't really recommend the movie. It's not terrible though and may be worth I watch if nothing better to do and at least one has a passing interest in the premise...just don't expect much.

Raised by Wolves (2020–2022)

High Potential

[9/10 · 8 September 2020]

Only 3 episodes in but this show is looking like it may be something special. Real science fiction combined with very high production values. I guarantee you that you will find something new here...something you may not have seen before in sci-fi fantasy. Not necessarily that all the concepts here are original per se - I mean at this point how original can things be - but more the way these concepts are portrayed and plotted.

To top things off, the show is extremely entertaining.

Real hats off to the actress playing Mother. I'm not familiar with the actress at all, but she is doing very fine work here. Her portrayal rivals Fassbender's David in Prometheus.

I'm holding at a 9 star rating based on the 3 episodes released so far, but hoping this turns out to be a classic all signs point to it being.

Spies in Disguise (2019)

A Refreshing Spritz

[8/10 · 6 September 2020]

50 year old kid here who'd never heard of this movie until it premiered on HBO the day I write this review. Apparently, this movie flew right under the radar.

Maybe not exactly a cartoon movie classic, but nonetheless a very entertaining ride for kids and adults. Excellent animation, engaging if not original plot, and some pretty good humor throughout. Best cartoon movie I've seen in some time.

Definitely recommend. And to top things off you will learn more about pigeons than you ever cared to know.

Cursed (2020)

Issue with Tone

[5/10 · 22 August 2020]

Deleted an old review based on 2 episodes and reviewing again after having seen most. The show is based on a Frank Miller novel - a subversive reimagining of Arthurian legend. Judge the show on its merits alone rather than preconceived bias or expectation. It's different, ahistorical, and has black characters. Or simply don't watch.

I gave the show a 7 initial more as an offset, but having watched most of it I'm standing at middling 5 stars. "Cursed" is watchable and has some good and even captivating moments. The acting is mostly fine. The problem, in my opinion, is tone. And with tone issues, you get plot and scripting issues. It comes down to the creators not knowing what they want the show to be. Committing to more gritty "GOT" adult type venture or purely YA fantasy joint more like British "Merlin" show from a few years ago. It's really hard to have it both ways.

The show does have some grit - it's not afraid of some blood and flying body parts - but often diverts into cringy YA tropes. Personally, I'd rather the show went darker and sexier. There's a flood of YA stuff streaming now. Although I expect to finish the last couple of episodes, I don't expect I'll watch the second season, which apparently has been ordered. Ultimately, I think the series will fail. The cheesy stuff is too off-putting for me especially in contrast to the better and grittier elements. Who knows though, it may get enough of a cult following among the younger crowds.

Belgravia (2020)

Ignore negative reviews

[9/10 · 16 April 2020]

If you are planning to watch "Belgravia" then you already enjoy this type thing. The acting is great and the story intriguing. So far everything you could possibly want in a period piece.

Tamsin Greig, who looks so familiar to me but can't place her, is truly exceptional here. Why is she not in more stuff?

So far, so great. Let's hope the series continues the quality.

The Making of a Lady (2012 TV Movie)

Ultimately unsatisfying

[6/10 · 16 April 2020]

Intrigued by the great cast, I gave this movie a shot. Have not familiarity with the source it is based on or how much material there is to work with.

Movie starts out nicely. Again, great cast. I was immediately intrigued by our lowly and lovely heroine. Yet, overall this movie is way to short and did not give enough service to the blossoming relationship before the movie evolves into a more melodramatic and suspenseful arena. Ultimately, this leaves very little emotional impact to ..well...anything that happens.

Decently acted, but felt that most of the very good cast did not feel all that invested in the effort. I think an expanded version of the first half of the movie before all the melodrama would make an excellent watch.

Regardless, the movie is probably worth of watch if you like period pieces. It is mostly entertaining but otherwise just a trifle.