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rhagelberg
Reviews
Death in Paradise: Episode #13.6 (2024)
Awaiting the next white man savior as Inspector
In this ongoing series, while I've found much to enjoy, a lingering discomfort persists over its portrayal of a white protagonist assuming intellectual superiority over predominantly non-white characters on a tropical island. The colonialist undertones remain glaringly evident, with the British colonial narrative of superiority over indigenous populations persisting as a central theme.
While Neville has proven competent as an inspector, he pales in comparison to the charisma, intelligence, and sheer presence of his predecessor, Mooney. Now, as Neville departs, rumors swirl of yet another white actor, Martin Clunes, poised to assume the role of the next "savior" figure. While Clunes undoubtedly possesses acting prowess and screen experience, the prospect of another white elite character stepping into the role leaves a bitter taste. Why not explore the potential of an Indian, Jamaican, or even a local resident of color ascending to the position of inspector? Sadly, it seems such a progressive shift would undermine the core message the series seeks to convey.
Death in Paradise: Episode #13.1 (2024)
Someone PLEASE contact me to help WRITE THE SCRIPT!!!
As an experienced film critic, I find myself grappling with a genuine effort to appreciate this show, yet the quality of the writing is plummeting to atrocious depths. While we are drawn to the exquisite cinematography and visually stunning sequences, the mounting flaws in the narrative are increasingly difficult to overlook. Take, for instance, the scene where Selwyn lays in the hospital bed, with the nurse call button ominously hanging over the end. It's a jarring detail that disrupts the immersion, begging the question of the production's attention to detail. Furthermore, Selwyn's passive reaction to Arlton's entrance raises eyebrows-why doesn't he vocalize his distress instead of merely staring? While intentional pauses can enhance dramatic effect, the excessive and aimless lingering in certain moments feels more like a lapse in storytelling coherence. The litany of such writing missteps renders these episodes, at best, a disjointed and erratic viewing experience.
Death in Paradise: Sins of the Detective - Part 2 (2023)
Finally a DI of Color!
Of course it's to investigate the white DI who is a suspect. Only seems fair. Please, UK TV producers, directors, writers, you are leaps and bounds behind US quality when it comes to realism, details and acting, at least in this series. Even consulting with other UK directors might help.
Even DI Parker's overacting seemed way too scripted and out of character. He is my least favorite DI to date. Consider bringing back DI Mooney! He added so much to the overall quality of the series. And Josephine Jobért was the most talented of the entire show just my two cents worth but I believe these changes would bring the show back to a high caliber show.
Death in Paradise (2011)
In Typical British Fashion
First of all let me say that there are some really good elements to this show. Some interesting Poirot-esque story lines, Poirot-like roundups to the cases and Poirot-like characters. However, I can't get beyond the overall elephant in the room issue as with so many UK shows...the white man arrives to educate and best every minority on the islands.
Every inspector is white. He arrives to a setting completely out of his wheelhouse wearing ridiculous clothing in the tropical heat and refusing to live like the locals or even try. Complains about every inconvenience and food option and the inevitable lack of proper tea. It really is quite insulting.
I can't seem to get past that overarching message of this show.
Arrow: Sins of the Father (2016)
Such Stupid Reasoning!
It is so ridiculous that when Oliver is contemplating that Malcolm may have a change of heart, in order to save his relationship with his daughter, Thea, they never take into account all of the lives that are lost. They only think about their own family in the whole scheme of things. They are definitely not superheroes in any sense of the word. They are still considered vigilantes and put so many people in harms way.
The Flash: Seeing Red (2019)
Makes No Sense!
Seriously?! It makes no sense that every time they get cicada down or restrained they turn their backs on him or they let him go. That makes no sense whatsoever.
Hope Street (2020)
Disjointed Storyline
The director treats the very first episode like it's an established series. Virtually zero introduction to the characters and even less lead in to the actual story.
Scenes jump from one to the other in an unrelated fashion like they're a compilation of short skits. Very cheeky and hard to follow if there is anything to actually follow. Hope the second episode improves.
Scorpion: Toby or Not Toby (2016)
Walter is Weak!
All he had to do was break Collins's leg then save Toby. Go back and get Collins. I really like this series but there are far too many bugs for thinking people. We aren't all low IQ humans. Don't treat us like we are.
Hawaii Five-0: Pa Make Loa (Touch of Death) (2012)
Detectives all exposed to Smallpox
But they they proceed to go about business as usual, technically infecting anyone and everyone they would come into contact with. When Danny asks Max if he should be wearing a mask, Max says technically. Then Danny carries on as usual. Makes no sense.
Blue Bloods: Confessions (2016)
Another Priest Enabling Crime
One of the most ridiculous premises when a priest refuses to notify police of the whereabouts of a kidnapped boy. Figure that. No amount of religious belief or conviction would make that scenario appropriate. God would not approve of or condone anyone keeping such a secret. But, then again, priests aren't exactly bound by God's laws.
Sliders (1995)
Some of the worst writing in film history!
While I enjoyed Sliders to some extent, the entire time I watched it I couldn't help but be irritated by all of the silliness and inept story lines. Even LOST had better writing and I was furious about the way it ended! There were so many inconsistencies and foibles that it was more like watching a high school play at times.