folk_egm Reviews

Maxton Hall: The World Between Us (2024– )

A teen romance series that masks an intensely dramatic core.

[8/10 · 12 May 2024]

I'm a man. At first, I thought this was just another typical teen romance series - the formulaic Cinderella plot of a girl meeting a boring prince charming. But the actual content is shockingly heavy on the personal struggles and issues of every character. The show deftly alternates between romantic scenes and intense dramatic plotlines in a seamless way. It tells the stories of these characters' personal issues alongside the awkward, slowly developing romance. The actors deliver very natural and charismatic performances. And the tight 6-episode structure allows for an intense, focused narrative throughout. I highly recommend not missing this one - don't judge it just by its outward appearances.

3 Body Problem (2024)

It adapted the acclaimed Chinese novel into a typical Western-style TV series.

[6/10 · 23 March 2024]

This is a sci-fi series from the creator of Game of Thrones that adapts a Hugo award-winning Chinese novel, but with almost all the characters changed to Westerners. It keeps only the major plot events and the Chinese female lead character from the beginning. While this aspect is done well, it completely loses the deeper Chinese political science content of the original. And viewers of the series cannot then go read the original novel. Additionally, the newly created characters become a group of drunken scientists full of Western-style personal life and romantic issues, which is an unnecessary aspect that the show labors on throughout. This greatly reduces the value of the original work. (The previous Chinese TV series version on WeTV was much more faithful to the original novel.)

One Day (2024)

A love series that is more realistic than romantic, but too long

[5/10 · 8 February 2024]

To summarize, this series is a love story that stretches unnecessarily over 14 episodes, leading to a feeling that interested viewers might be better off revisiting the original movie. The storyline suffers from disjointed episodes, following the theme of one day per year, which hampers the overall flow. It doesn't fit into the typical romantic genre and instead leans towards presenting a more realistic portrayal of love, emphasizing sadness and hardships in life over happiness. It serves as a lesson in learning and experiencing the complexities of love, concluding without a typical happy ending.

Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2024– )

A remake with minimal action but rich in intricate romantic drama!

[7/10 · 4 February 2024]

This is the remake version of Mr. & Mrs. Smith, which expands the love story from the movie into a narrative of the fake couple's ordinary-looking secret agent life. They face the typical challenges and romantic dilemmas from the beginning to the conclusive end, just like real couples. The series is well-executed, with action scenes sprinkled in each episode as a mere seasoning. The action-packed sequences are particularly prominent in episodes 5 and 8, while the rest of the series maintains a lighter tone. It's worth noting that this series is more about the complete portrayal of a fictional couple's life rather than delivering intense action scenes. If you're expecting thrilling action, you might be disappointed, but if you're interested in a light-hearted portrayal of a spy couple's misadventures in love and missions, then this series will not disappoint.

Argylle (2024)

Spy world torn with fresh trends, accompanied by adorable meows!

[9/10 · 1 February 2024]

In summary, this film by director Matthew Vaughn successfully delivers a return to form, providing viewers with over 2 hours of full enjoyment. It is rich with stylishly curated action scenes that align with the director's signature style. The spy world presented in the movie takes a refreshing and unconventional approach, featuring characters who are more ordinary than the traditionally handsome and beautiful spies. The film seamlessly blends elements of romantic comedy and biting humor into the spy genre. It comes with the central theme that the more skilled a spy is, the better they can smoothly lie, which adds complexity to the story. The film cleverly breaks the mold several times, always with reasonable explanations. Additionally, the movie heavily incorporates the selling point of cats, bringing a playful and irresistible charm to the film. The scenes with the cat character contribute to the comedic and quirky identity that cannot be ignored. This film is a colorful and captivating story, particularly appealing to cat lovers.

Boy Swallows Universe (2024)

Dark and intense to the extreme, yet it is brimming with overwhelming positivity!

[8/10 · 15 January 2024]

This is a compelling series that portrays a profound and heartfelt story. It delicately navigates through the lives of children born into a family surrounded by nothing but darkness and violence from criminals. It does not shy away from the harsh realities faced by the child characters but instead places this issue at the forefront of the narrative from start to finish. The series uses the strength of the protagonist children, who must struggle and endure in this challenging life, to drive the plot seriously. It embeds a powerful positive force that ultimately helps the adult characters reclaim their family once again.

The storyline depicts the growth and development of each character remarkably well, adding depth to the narrative. Additionally, it incorporates elements of mystery and romance, creating intrigue that keeps the audience engaged in guessing and following the unfolding events. The resolution of the series is logical and emotionally impactful. I highly recommend not to miss out on this series and encourage you to give it a try.

Obliterated (2023)

The Hangover, a team-up version with secret agents from the creators of Cobra Kai!

[9/10 · 1 December 2023]

In summary, this series is an action-comedy with a plot reminiscent of The Hangover, featuring a team of undercover agents foolish. However, the writing, done by the creators of Cobra Kai, adds depth and complexity to the storyline. The characters, both protagonists and antagonists, exhibit cleverness in navigating challenging situations, akin to top-notch spy movies. Action scenes are incorporated with a sense of anticipation and humor in every episode. Each character faces life problems that they must solve, interwoven seamlessly with their mission, creating a multifaceted and emotionally engaging series and extremely funny and dirty jokes without any censorship. The only downside is that the cast, as a whole, may not exude a particularly captivating charm, but the well-crafted characters make it easy for viewers to like them.

All the Light We Cannot See (2023)

The Mini-Series That Tells The Story Of Nazee Is Different And Truly Impressive.

[9/10 · 2 November 2023]

In summary, this 4-episode series is a remarkable and highly-produced work that goes beyond the typical TV series. Created by renowned figures Steven Knight and Shawn Levy, it tells a unique perspective of the Nazi-occupied small town in France during a historical period. The plot primarily focuses on the search for a blind young woman who becomes a symbol of resistance during the war and a young Nazi who is forced to hunt her down. The series weaves two distinct life stories, the radio plays a central role in connecting both characters, serving as a bridge that links their lives and stories together. One set in the past with intricate subplots, leading up to the heart-wrenching war scenes in the present. What makes it exceptional is the fact that the lead actress is a real blind actress with no prior acting experience, and she delivers a natural and captivating performance. It's a series leaving a lasting impression and is definitely worth watching.

Creature (2023)

Modify Frankenstein Into An Islamic Version Is Very Strange.

[7/10 · 21 October 2023]

Creature (Yaratilan) The Netflix limited series 8 episodes and is from Turkey. It follows a medical student who tries to break the boundaries of religion and science by bringing the dead back to life, but what comes back is far from what he expected.

This series is a highly unusual adaptation of the Frankenstein story, starting with the ancient beliefs of Islam and delving into the realm of science. The later episodes are filled with intense and heart-wrenching drama. While the narrative may not always flow seamlessly and features some peculiar pacing due to the significant divergence from the original, the story remains engaging and intriguing because of its unique approach.

Old Dads (2023)

Challenging The Way Of Thinking About The New Era From Men In The Old Era!

[7/10 · 21 October 2023]

A dark comedy from Netflix that satirizes the social aspects of the new era. It's quite astonishing, but part of it might be because it's the directorial debut of Bill Burr , a renowned comedian in the United States who's known for his edgy stand-up humor. (I'm not American, didn't know much about him before) it received a wave of criticism, some to the point of giving it a 1/10 or 0/10 rating, labeling it as trash.

However, on the viewers' side, opinions sharply contrasted, with many considering it a confrontational film aimed squarely at critics. It also mocks the problems of the modern world where society is rapidly shifting from the old ways. Those who belong to this later group tend to agree that this is a film worth watching. But it comes with a caveat: it's not suitable for the most sensitive of modern audiences. So, it's a matter of perspective, but definitely worth a watch for the right audience.

This is not a film that can be called excellent or accurately depict the social issues of both the old and new eras. However, it deserves praise for daring to stand out, especially coming from Netflix, a modern media platform. Even though it might seem like it's trying to create drama, one thing is for sure - it's genuinely hilarious. If you're someone who doesn't belong entirely to the past or the present, you should definitely give it a watch. But for those viewers edge of the modern era, Be warned that watching it can definitely leave you frustrated and exasperated.

The Head (2020– )

A murder mystery series that manages to recreate the events of the first season remarkably well

[8/10 · 9 October 2023]

A murder mystery series that manages to recreate the events of the first season remarkably well

In the limited setting of Antarctica, Season 2 takes viewers on board a large cargo ship instead

The series managed to impress greatly with its storytelling in the first season. Even though viewers may already know who the killer is by the end of the first season, there is still fresh content to tell. The creators intentionally repeated the story in the same format, but in a new setting with a new cast, and they did it even better. Anyone who liked the first season should definitely watch this one.

The Creator (2023)

Balancing both drama and action in Thailand's new, fresh cyberpunk world.

[8/10 · 28 September 2023]

In summary, this is a must-see cyberpunk work, not just because it was produced in Thailand, but because it is an original story that creates its own world entirely and executes it exceptionally well. It delves deep into the emotional aspects while addressing current global issues, including the geopolitical tensions between the West and the East and the advancements in AI that are threatening human jobs. The storyline is emotionally engaging and thought-provoking throughout, combining both parts of drama and action seamlessly. The charismatic lead actors, especially the performance of Madeleine Yuna Voyles, are captivating. Although there are some editing issues at certain points, they do not detract from the overall narrative. I highly recommend watching this, as it marks a significant milestone for both Thai soft power in tourism and low-budget Hollywood in terms of its outstanding and unexpected results (with an $80 million budget)

The Chosen One (2023– )

"Stranger Things" Mexican Version In The Theme Of The Divine!

[9/10 · 17 August 2023]

The Chosen One (el elegido) The Mexican series based on the American comic by Mark Millar consists of a total of 6 episodes. It follows the story of a 12-year-old child who discovers they possess powers akin to Jesus Christ. What will happen in their life?

In summary, this series is a brilliantly crafted adaptation from a comic, featuring a storyline with intricately developed characters much like a Mexican version of Stranger Things. Every actor delivers an impressive performance, and the narrative unfolds in a unique and captivating way, filled with excitement and complexity that persists even in its conclusion. Highly recommended not to be missed, especially for fans of the writer Mark Millar.

They Cloned Tyrone (2023)

It's Like Taking Jordan Peele's Style And Spicing It Up To The Extreme!

[8/10 · 21 July 2023]

They Cloned Tyrone Netflix The movie stars famous celebrities such as John Boyega, Teyonah Parris, and Jamie Foxx. It revolves around three individuals from the criminal world. They come across a very bizarre and terrifying incident in the city, which sends shockwaves throughout the country.

This is a black movie that is genuinely entertaining, filled with intriguing elements. While the plot may not be entirely groundbreaking, it successfully mixes various genres together, much like combining the style of director Jordan Peele's works to make it even more thrilling. The execution aligns with the intentions, and it should appeal to viewers seeking something fresh and innovative, especially on Netflix.

Bird Box: Barcelona (2023)

Exciting, Fresh, And Even More Fun Than The First Installment!

[8/10 · 15 July 2023]

Bird Box: Barcelona The sequel to the original Netflix movie that captivated audiences in 2018, after the mysterious force decimated the world's population, sees Sebastian embarking on a journey to survive through the post-apocalyptic wasteland of Barcelona. As he joins forces with other survivors, they attempt to escape the city, facing unforeseen and increasingly terrifying threats.

Overall, this is an outstanding sequel produced by a new and talented team. The storyline grabs your attention right from the start and keeps you engaged until the very end with non-stop, continuous suspense. The use of impressive CGI on a grand scale adds to the visual appeal. Along with a riddle explanation to continue to the next level. I highly recommend not missing out on this extraordinary film.

The Horror of Dolores Roach (2023)

Drama, Mystery, Romance, Comedy, Complete Entertainment!

[8/10 · 13 July 2023]

The Horror of Dolores Roach The Amazon Prime Video series consists of 8 episodes an unjust imprisonment of 16 years. Dolores Roche (played by Justina Machado) returns to Washington Heights, which has now become a neighborhood where the wealthy take over the area. Dolores reunites with Luis, an old friend who enjoys smoking marijuana. Luis provides Dolores with shelter and a job as a masseuse in the underground basement of his empanada shop. As things quickly spiral out of control and danger approaches, Dolores, the "Wonder Hand," must resort to extreme measures to survive.

Overall, this is a compelling and intense short series that effectively portrays various aspects such as drama, murder, love, and the psychological effects of societal oppression. It successfully captures the audience's attention and provides a unique and different experience. I highly recommend it to those who are looking for something intriguing and out of the ordinary.

I'm a Virgo (2023)

Coming Of Age and supernatural power in a cult-style.

[6/10 · 24 June 2023]

The series has peculiar initial ideas, combined with a cult-Style presentation that can be confusing and difficult to understand.particularly concerning politics and capitalist perspectives from the viewpoint of Black individuals. This makes it a niche content that is challenging for a wider audience to grasp, ultimately making it less enjoyable. However, the presentation of characters with extraordinary powers in a bizarre manner is intriguing and keeps viewers engaged until the end. It's worth giving it a try, as each episode is only around 25-30 minutes long. However, be aware that the series leaves many storylines hanging and sets up for a potential second season.

Skull Island (2023– )

Animation Monster That Is Made A Very Children's Movie.

[5/10 · 22 June 2023]

Skull Island is an animated Netflix production based on the films from the Legendary Pictures and Warner Bros. Pictures universe, which is a spinoff of Kong: Skull Island from 2017. The project is helmed by Brian Duffield, who previously worked as a writer for Love and Monsters and The Babysitter, and he takes on the role of writer and director for this animated feature. The story revolves around a group of individuals who find themselves stranded on Skull Island, where they encounter Kong and a multitude of gigantic creatures in this extraordinary location.

A low-budget animation that capitalizes on the popularity of Kong: Skull Island to attract viewers, but the storyline is extremely poor. It lacks any excitement or suspense, and the monster designs are very childlike. There are no monsters from the original film that make an appearance, only Kong, who lacks any sense of intimidation. I would recommend skipping it altogether, no matter how much of a fan you are of the original movie.

Blood & Gold (2023)

A Very Entertaining Nazi-Killing Action Movie.

[8/10 · 27 May 2023]

It is an action-packed German film set in the chaotic backdrop of post-war Nazi Germany. It shares a similar style to the film "Inglourious Basterds" but on a smaller scale. Created by German filmmakers, it is incredibly entertaining and engaging. Every moment of the film is filled with thrilling action scenes. Each character has a prominent and compelling role, keeping the audience guessing about what will happen next. The comedy is sharp and satirical, adding an amusing and provocative twist to the Nazi narrative. The film also doesn't forget to address the plight of the Jewish people, but this time it is the work of German villagers themselves, a perspective not often seen in other films. It is an unexpected in the action genre on Netflix, and I highly recommend not to miss it!

Tin & Tina (2023)

Thriller movie about possessed religious children with pure souls

[6/10 · 26 May 2023]

Thriller movie about possessed religious children with pure souls

Overall, the movie can be considered successful in portraying the innocence of children led astray by misguided religious adults. The film shows the adorable nature of the children juxtaposed with thriller scenes, although it doesn't explicitly depict horrifying scenes. The movie consistently explores the theme of children's innocence throughout, leading up to an open-ended final scene that leaves viewers puzzled about its interpretation. The film may not be highly entertaining, but it leaves room for various thoughts and interpretations in the viewers' minds.

Black Knight (2023– )

The Korean Sci-Fi Series Set In A Dystopian World Is Completely Fake.

[5/10 · 14 May 2023]

The Korean sci-fi series set in a post-apocalyptic world falls short in many aspects. Every element in the series feels blatantly fake and the overall quality seems to be lacking, almost resembling a low-budget production. The storyline, derived from a shallow cartoon, lacks depth, and the dialogue feels unnatural. Additionally, it attempts to imitate Western series, lacking originality and proper execution. Moreover, the constant insertion of comedic elements contradicts the realistic tone of the post-apocalyptic world. The only positive aspect is the short length of the series, with only 6 episodes. For those who enjoy Korean dramas and are looking for something slightly different, it might be worth watching, but it's advisable not to expect too much.

Sanctuary (2023– )

Tell the story of a new and unusual sumo industry, but story too many formulas.

[6/10 · 4 May 2023]

The first Japanese sports-themed Sumo series is interesting in its own right, with unique content. However, the story itself doesn't make it feel significantly different from other sports-themed series.

Overall, it is a Japanese sports drama series that aims to create a feel-good and inspirational atmosphere more than being a serious Sumo wrestling drama as perceived from the outside. There are some enjoyable parts, such as the intense training scenes with beautiful slow-motion shots and details, but it is still far from the reality of actual martial arts fighting, making it less appealing to non-Japanese audiences. However, if viewed as a fresh and unique perspective, it can still be considered okay because this is the first Sumo sports drama series ever made.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023)

The ending part that tells the story in a Play Safe.

[6/10 · 3 May 2023]

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 The final installment directed by James Gunn before he went on to become the head of DC, was expected to be his most dedicated work yet. However, the result turned out to be a disappointment, as if Gunn only came to close the chapter and pass to Marvel. The entire storyline was filled with repetition and played safe, similar to his previous work on "Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania".

Overall, the film is a lackluster final installment from director James Gunn. Despite enjoying the concluding arcs of several characters in the story, it lacks novelty. Rocket's backstory is over-drama and everything in the movie feels played safe. It's no different from Marvel's previous film, Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania.

AKA (2023)

Intense Action-Drama From The Creators' Team Of "Lost Bullet"

[8/10 · 30 April 2023]

AKA French action movie on Netflix created by the team Lost Bullet. The story follows an undercover agent who must face an emotional test when he infiltrates a gang of criminals and unexpectedly forms a close bond with the boss's son.

This is an action-drama movie with well-written plot details that successfully blend moral principles with the role of a killer spy. Despite Alban Lenoir not having a traditionally handsome appearance, his acting skills in this movie are much more impressive compared to his previous work in "Lost Bullet." His intense solo action scenes are still present even though the movie emphasizes more on the drama aspect. Overall, this is a highly recommended streaming movie that should not be missed.

The Nurse (2023)

Serial killer nurse with schizophrenia is different from The Good Nurse.

[6/10 · 29 April 2023]

The Nurse The 4-episode original Netflix series is based on the true story of Denmark's most notorious serial killing case. The story begins in early March 2015 when Danish police received a call from a nurse at Nykøbing Falster Hospital, who suspected that her colleague had killed three patients. There were indications that the colleague had been involved in a series of killings before, targeting multiple victims.

Overall, this series tells the story of a chilling case well, but wastes time on setting up the characters' work lives in the early parts. It gets more exciting in the second half. Compared to "The Good Nurse," it's not as concise, but they're different cases with differing levels of detail on the killings and motivations. Despite their differences, they share many similarities and are both worth watching, especially for those who enjoy a continuous killer genre.