Change Your Image
jesusonasurfboard1
Ratings
Most Recently Rated
Reviews
Eric (2024)
Not bad honestly
While many viewers have noted that the show tackles an abundance of social issues, I didn't find that it detracted significantly from the overall narrative.
The primary focus of the show is on runaway kids and missing children, making it essential to explore the surrounding themes. Some children run away due to parental neglect and abuse, while others disappear into the dangers of street life, such as turning tricks in alleyways. Set in 1980s NYC, the series inevitably addresses homophobia and institutionalized racism for the sake of realism. Ignoring these topics would have felt forced and inauthentic.
However, I do feel that the core messages were sometimes overshadowed by the competing themes. For instance, while homelessness is an important issue, it might have been more effective to reserve this series to focus on its central themes more deeply.
The show also lacked context in some areas. I wanted more insight into what caused Cassie and Vincent's relationship to deteriorate, the events that led Edgar to run away, and the reasons behind Marlon's decision to turn tricks at the club. From his background, Marlon appeared to be educated and well-off, which left me curious as to why he did what he did.
Despite these critiques, the cast delivered phenomenal performances, bringing their characters to life with compelling authenticity. The fast-paced nature of the show kept me engaged throughout and made for a highly entertaining experience. Overall, I'd rate it a solid 8.
American Horror Stories: Organ (2023)
In regards to the acting...
I thought he was great! I can see some criticisms on here surrounding the actor that plays the main lead. I thought he was the right fit for the role. His acting was a bit odd and out of place but that's the whole point!! The way his character goes, he's supposed to be a mediocre looking guy that's awkward, flaunts his wealth to attract girls, is extremely unlikable and strange: the embodiment of a guy with a Napoleon complex. Toby is extremely misogynistic. As such, I think if Toby was played by a handsome, 6'2, blue-eyed guy, it wouldn't be convincing because he wouldn't have this innate inferiority complex to begin with.
This story felt really unique and exciting compared to the other episodes from the same season. I was thoroughly entertained and amused from beginning to the end. I don't know what the hate is all about.
Baby Reindeer (2024)
Complex and multi-layered.
I came back here to review this series following Fiona Harvey (also known as Fiona Muir) A. K. A Martha's appearance on the Piers Morgan show where she denied all allegations made about her in this series.
The most admirable aspect about this series is the fact that Richard, or Donny, never portrayed himself to be just the victim. He was honest about his mistakes, and all the things he may have done to lead Martha on. He also didn't portray Martha to be just an abuser. I think the show did well to portray that Martha also had her good parts and was herself a victim to her childhood tragedies. There was nothing one-sided about the way he told his story. The series is quite unconventional in the way that the narrative was so much than just Victim vs. Abuser. That the story is multi-dimensional and complex.
This is definitely one of the most difficult series I'd had to watch. There were some scenes that left me stunned and speechless. Most importantly, I cannot fathom how painful and difficult it must be for Richard to reenact some of most traumatizing events in his life for the world to see.
Bijillante (2023)
Vigilantism strikes again! The ending's weird though...
I found myself utterly captivated by the cast's exceptional acting, leading me to binge all 8 episodes in a single day. The buildup to the climax was well-executed, but I must admit I found the final episode a bit perplexing.
To recap for those unfamiliar, in the concluding episode, Mr. Bang met with Kim Samdoo and the Vigilante(s) at the stadium to exchange Choi Miryeo for Samdoo's crypto wallet. Meanwhile, an EDM festival was taking place, with attendees donning the vigilantes' distinctive black hoodies and trousers. Now, here's my concern.
Choi Miryeo is a mega famous reporter, with her livestreams getting tens of thousands of viewers almost instantly. As she navigated the stadium while being held hostage, wouldn't she have been recognized by her fans, especially with her striking red hair?
Also, when she began livestreaming the gang attacks with the vigilantes at the parking lot, I expected her fans in the stadium - who are likely devoted followers of both Miryeo and the vigilantes - to rush to their defense. Given the fact that the stadium attendees were already dressed in black hoodies for the festival, I really thought the director would be going for a poetic ending where civilians in black hoodies fight alongside with the Vigilantes because "we all share the same morals and principles."
Anyhow, South Korea did it again! This was yet another satisfying series to watch. If you are a fan of this series, highly recommend "Juvenile Justice" (my number one favourite!) or if you're a fan of vigilantism, "Taxi Driver" is amazing.
Physical: 100 (2023)
Great show, but in regards to the controversy...
If Squid Game, Alice in Borderland and the Survivor had a baby, this would be it. This show really lives up to its name. Your physique would have to be in its best condition to get through any of the games. It's eyeopening and motivating to see how much the human body is capable of.
However, shortly after release, the show faced backlash in South Korea. From Kim Da Young admitting to be a school bully, to Jang Seongmin who was sentenced to 7 year in prison for assaulting his girlfriend with a weapon, the show's integrity was greatly questioned. The biggest controversy was regarding the true winner of Physical 100.
In the final challenge, contestant Jung Hae-min and Woo Jin Yong competed in a rope-pulling game where they had to pull heavy rope from the spool, ultimately leading to Woo Jin Yong winning the show.
Hae-min, who came second place in the show, claimed that the match was stopped and rematched three times, and that the intensity of the equipment was tampered with. In the first game, Woo Jin Yong claimed that there was a problem with his rope. In the second game, production team claimed that Jung Hae Min's audio was malfunctioning. In the final game, Jung felt that his rope was tampered with, as he struggled to even move the rope by an inch. He was also frustrated that some of his candid interviews were excluded from the show final cut.
What do you guys think? Despite some of the contestants' questionable behavior and disappointing claims regarding the final, I still hold great admiration for the remaining contestants who competed honestly and transparently with all their might, like contestants Jo Jin-hyeong and Kim Shik who admirably carried the boulder (argued to weigh between 50 to 100 kg) for over two hours on their shoulders in the Atlas challenge. Contestant Jang Eun Sil also deserves an honorary mention for leading her team of "underdogs" to victory in the bridge challenge.
Overall, Physical: 100 was a captivating show that kept me on the edge of my seats many, many times! Don't let a few bad apples spoil the bunch! It is still a great show nonetheless.
I am looking forward to cheering on the new cast that the show will bring us in season 2 with all its crazy challenges!
Euphoria (2019)
Beautiful and mid
Euphoria's cinematography is beautiful and artistic, but that in itself is a problem, particularly when it comes to Rue's scenes. Personally, I feel that the show romanticizes Rue's drug use. They made it seem almost "aesthetic" to take drugs, which is a problem when the show pertains to adolescent-teenage audience.
The second season takes the show to a more artistic direction, with a lot of unnecessary montages and artistic scenes that really didn't contribute to the story line. Though, I'm glad they shed more light on the dark side of drug use. Euphoria is undeniably a success. It massed and every other teen watches is, which is why I felt like more awareness could have been raised throughout the show.
Now, if you were to take away the pretty aesthetics and editing, the storyline itself is pretty mid and really didn't go in any particular direction. The premise of the show is to depict teenagers doing things, which is why the over-dramatization of some storylines defeats the point of the show.
Regardless, I did enjoy the artistry and some storylines. I hope that all the young ones watching this show will not idolize these characters. None, and I mean NONE, of the characters is someone you should be looking up to.
A Tale Dark & Grimm (2021)
Perfect for this spooky season
I read this book growing up, and always thought the book was twisted but I really enjoyed it. So naturally, when I saw this on Netflix, it's a must-watch.
The series stay loyal to the original storyline, it's just as gory and just as disturbing. For those of you who are displeased because of how creepy and twisted it is- that's the point! Gidwitz portrayed the Grimm brothers' tales in a different light is all.
I noticed a lot of remarks about Hansel's skin color. Personally, I didn't mind the fact that Hansel is darker than Gretel; genetics are a weird thing. Also, why would it matter? As a colored folk, I would have loved to see more colored folks like myself on the TV growing up.
Overall, this series is perfect for a Halloween night with the kids. It's not that gory, I promise!
Ojing-eo geim (2021)
Scarily Accurate
I'm just gonna say this right off the bat, Ali deserves better. Period. That scene where Sangwoo betrayed him got me clutching my pearls and choking on air. I've never been one to watch K-series, and this series got me hooked! The acting is exceptional for all Korean characters EXCEPT the VIPs. What in the name of Peter Piper picked a pack of pickled peppers was going on with their horrendous, cold, bleak acting?
Aside from that, I appreciate how realistic and simple the plot is, but it is so well-developed. The one fact that hits hardest for me is the fact that if this game was to take place tomorrow, people would actually partake in it. Even more so, the same betrayals and back stabbing would happen too. Something chilling about that fact to me.
The Guilty (2021)
A desperate attempt to win an Oscar
The movie isn't plothole-riddled, because it doesn't make enough sense to have plotholes when the whole plot is a mess. I'm trying to wrap my head around this whole thing. In a real world situation, wouldn't Henry just turn Emily's phone off and just quickly rush to the hospital if he knew she's severely mentally ill and a threat? In this film, LA was undergoing a massive wildfire, but it's not like it was Gotham 2.0. I find it hard to believe that it'd take dispatchers, what, 2 hours or something to get to Abby and Oliver in a KIDNAP case? And if Joe has a pending murder court case, wouldn't he be suspended of his duty? Why does everyone seem so unenthusiastic and careless in a KIDNAP case? Why does Joe keep throwing up and falling into a coughing? So many questions, not enough answers. 3/10 for Jake Gyllenhaal's over-the-top acting. A sad attempt to grab an Oscar.
Pose (2018)
Felt emotions I didn't know I had.
This is one of the best shows I've ever had the privilege of watching. And here is why.
I went into this show expecting to see 80s ballroom culture, fem queens voguing it out in Harem, and old queens antics. This show delivered just that and so much more. The directors and writers did an excellent job approaching sensitive topics such as the struggles amidst the AIDS/HIV epidemic in the 80s/90s and the segregation faced by young black/latino gay men and women. For those of you unfamiliar with ballroom and gay culture in the 80s, this will open up a new perspective. All the characters are so flavorful and unique; the chemistry is off the charts.
This show will make you ugly cry, happy cry, confused cry and all that jazz. This show brought out emotions I didn't know I had in me. A must watch.
Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian (2009)
Just not as good as the first...
Something was off with Amy Adams' portrayal of Amelia Eckhart... Seems like she's almost trying too hard to be whimsical with that mid-Atlantic accent. Besides, she was married. I get that her character is a go-getter... but why would she make advances toward Larry?
Most importantly, why does Kan Mun Rah have a lisp?!
The build up to the climax just wasn't as good as the first; the anticipated fight scene kind of fell flat. Some plot holes here and there, but that doesn't make this movie bad. In fact, it's just so hard to make such an iconic franchise bad.
It is still a very iconic movie. I absolutely loved when the paintings come to life, something we didn't get to see in the previous movie. The ending warms me up just like the first time I'd seen it.
The Princess and the Frog (2009)
Unexpected, hilarious, good 'ol Southern charm!
I'm a few years late to this, because I'd always had an impression that the Princess and the Frog was yet another fairytale fad, but I stand corrected. Here, we have a relatable (and lovable) waitress lead, who's aspiration wasn't to escape from horrid stepmothers or evil witches, but simply to own a quaint restaurant in the name of her father. A goofy prince with a coquettish personality of, well, what we'd expect from a handsome 6' something prince. 'Tangled' did a similar spin on their prince and princess too, but what really hit the nail on the head with this one is the beautiful Southern charm we never got to see in other Disney films. In this film, Disney stays faithful to New Orleans rich history, incorporating jazz and blues, Cajun Creole culture, and Louisiana voodoo into the characters story.
Not to mention hilarious side characters. Ray the brave firefly takes the cake for his hilarious goofy attitude, and of course, Charlotte La Bouff for her adorable accent. All side characters interact and build up the storyline homogeneously.
This is by far the best Disney princess film for me, in my humblest opinion. All characters are so relatable and lovable. Unlike other pompous princess, we can actually sympathize with Tiana and her hardships.
Overall, if you haven't given this a watch, you must! I grinned all the way from the beginning to the end. This movie has a lot more to offer than you'd expect. If you're reading this, thank you for your time!
Alice in Wonderland (2010)
Down the rabbit hole
Don't get me wrong, I still thoroughly enjoyed the film, though knowing that it is directed by Burton, I am a bit let down by this film as it's just not up to par with his other works.
Don't let the beautiful visuals and great acting distract you from the fact that the storyline is filled with holes. Most importantly, I left with more questions than when I began:
Why is Alice the chosen girl?
How did Wonderland came about to begin with?
What is the meaning of 'Frabjous' day?
How did Alice travel to Wonderland in her dreams?
If everyone was aware of Alice and her role in dethroning the Red Queen, why did we see a montage of young Alice painting flowers with the Red Queen? Wouldn't she just kill Alice?
Why was the Bandersnatch helping Alice?
If the Red Queen and the White Queen are sisters, why do they look drastically different?
I spent a large fragment of my time googling these questions throughout the film. Although I understand that many of these questions are answered in the second movie, I don't understand why Burton chose not to address them in this film. For the element of intrigue? It's left me more puzzled than it did intrigued.
Alice in Wonderland holds so much potential and could have been the next big thing, but it's a swing and miss for me. Nonetheless, it is a very fascinating film with very beautiful visuals. Just a bit let down.
Tangled (2010)
Finally... A Princess Charming!
Needless to say that all the characters are lovable, and inspiring- spreading a message of hope, that so long as you hold onto your dreams, they can come true no matter how bizarre or little they are. Tangled also introduces an idea that even the wicked ones can redeem for good.
The story doesn't fall into the conventional "princess with poise trapped in a tower rescued by a handsome 6' something prince". Instead, Tangled has given us an unconventional quirky princess who's not afraid to get messy, and a witty orphaned thief- a refreshing new flavor. I personally adore Pascal.
I love that this film has a bit more realism and maturity than previous princess films. We get to see more flirty jokes. I could be wrong but I think Eugene might be the first Disney character to have ever received a death sentence.
Though, I would have loved to see the dynamics between Pascal and Maximus, and get a deeper insight into Mother Gothel's fear of mortality.
Lastly, we get to see little twists in gender norms. After all, Rapunzel did kiss Eugene first, and in the final montage, she leaned down to kiss him rather than the other way round. Just as Eugene saved Rapunzel, she too has saved him.
Disenchantment: A Princess, an Elf, and a Demon Walk Into a Bar (2018)
Feels like a fever dream
How do I put this? Well, this whole episode feels like the dream you had that one time after a night out where its very elaborate, a lot of things happened and doesn't really make sense. I feel like too many themes are introduced in a single episode, a bit overwhelming really.
Brooklyn Nine-Nine: Captain Kim (2020)
Keep Holting on.
Let's be real. Brooklyn 99 can never not be funny, but I think it's worth noting that the characters have changed a lot this season. Holt is no longer faithful to his morality. Holt spent this whole episode being petty to Captain Kim, trying to sink her. This is the man that refused to give a presentation for his commissionership because the panel was sexist towards Captain Crawford. The man who stepped down from role as president of AAGLYNYCPA because he felt the time was right. Don't get me wrong, petty Holt is incredible. It just doesn't feel like him.
Brooklyn Nine-Nine: The Jimmy Jab Games II (2020)
I'm a 'diehard' B99 fan but...
I can't help notice that the quality of the show has reduced a lot in this season. I watched this show over and over again, and it pains me to give this episode a low rating. The episode itself isn't entirely unfunny, it just didn't meet the B99 standards.
I watched this episode a few times and still can't seem to understand why Charles Boyle did a whole skit on the Greatest Showman. Was it ever mentioned in anywhere else throughout the show? No. Wouldn't it have made more sense if he did a skit on Mario Batali?
Most importantly, it's the Jimmy Jab! I waited many seasons for the return. They could've taken it over the top. They could've introduced more Boyle cousins (particularly Pam, the one Charles always talking about), the Santiago brothers, maybe even the Vulture or Wuntch.
Oh and one last thing. Debbie Fogle's character is just unbearable and extremely unfunny. She's just not up to par with every other character. And to write her evil at the episode. That just doesn't even make any sense.
Sweet Tooth: Secret Sauce (2021)
Questionable
What in the name of Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers was going on in this episode? First of, the Animal warrior people are just rebellious, angsty furries who wish they were Hybrids and think they have absolute authority now that everyone's dead. So let me get this straight, they were going to sentence Jepperd to death but Bear had a change of heart and Gus could talk to tigers...? This scene was supposed to be the most climatic but it was absolutely, solemnly, wholeheartedly atrocious. And then Nancie got kicked by a horse and died in front of the Singh's house after they had a spat? This episode sabotages everything this series was building itself towards. 3 stars for Gus and Jepperd's cute friendship, and that ambiguous attempt at CGI bear Bobby (I mean straight up, that bear belongs in Five Nights at Freddy's). I'm just going to pretend this episode didn't happen.
To All the Boys: P.S. I Still Love You (2020)
Oh, to be young!
This movie truly encapsulates what teenage romance is all about: childish behavior, tangled emotions and petty rivalry. Although I understand that there are some frustrations with character choices, I truly believe that each character embodies what it means to be young, dumb, and confused, and we all have been there. We all had someone we love and adore so much that no wrongs will ever change the way we feel about them. I particularly love the treehouse scene where Gen and Lara Jean shared a reminiscent moment, because I'm sure a lot of us had our bittersweet moments with old friends, the "ones who got away", too. Not to mention the impeccable choice for soundtracks and movie filter which adds the cherry on top. Not the best teen romcom or the most thrilling film ever made, but you need to give credit where credit's due.
Orphan (2009)
Well damn.
A fresh and unique thriller movie, definitely one of a kind. I do feel like the ending is a bit unsatisfying, like is Esther really dead? Is she imprisoned? Does everybody know about her true age now? Otherwise, it was a phenomenal movie that definitely left me satisfied!
The Order (2019)
Every character is so unlikeable in every way
And every unlikeable choices they make happens to make them even more unlikeable. This is the kind of show you play in the back while fixing the cabinet so the house doesn't feel so lonely. The storyline is incredibly mediocre, actors have 0 chemistry, and the plot doesn't really go anywhere. All characters have a personality of Chuck E Cheese cardboard cut outs. The screenwriters clutched on the use of curse words to give characters any 'dynamic' as if it would cure cancer. Gabrielle Dupres should never have been there.
Sierra Burgess Is a Loser (2018)
What in tarnation?
Sierra Burgess IS wholeheartedly, solemnly, truthfully a loser. She is a predator masked as a prey who indulges in self-victimisation. The movie couldn't go for longer than 10 minutes without Sierra using her size, appearance, or the fact that she's a lesser-than version of her parents to justify all her horrible behaviors. She spent months committing fraud against a good, honest man, and kissed him while pretending to be somebody else. Not to mention, she harassed and sabotaged Veronica's reputation, who helped her accomplish her juvenile fantasy of catfishing the man of her dreams and she didn't even apologize! This movie glorifies sexual battery and catfishing. Dan seems to be the only reasonable character...His back must be hurting from carrying this whole movie!
Stranger Things (2016)
A great tale gone to waste in season 3
The first season of the Stranger Things is by far the best season: dynamic and consistent characters, and a fresh, one of a kind concept. Season 3, however, robbed the series from it's full potential. The show stopped being about friends, and became more centered around romance. Jonathan turned into a selfish jerk boyfriend who looked to bark at Nancy when the occasion arises. The friend group dynamic destroyed by introducing romantic relations. Hopper spent the entire season being petty to Joyce because she bailed him on a date. I can only hope that the writer and producer bounce back with a better fourth season plot.
The Danish Girl (2015)
A for effort, C for attempt
The cinematography, outfit and cast choices were truly phenomenal, but they're not enough to mask the fact that this movie fails to encapsulate the essence of Lilli Elbe. The film depicts that all there was to this life-changing transformation was pain and sorrow, and even the brilliant acting from Eddie Redmayne and Alicia Vikander couldn't cut it. I also feel that Gerda Wegener does not receive enough credit for the role she plays in Lilli's life. The introduction of the character Hans was completely unnecessary and contributed nothing to any character development what so ever. This was an opportunity to tell the inspiring story of Lili Elbe, and her profound relationship with Gerda, but all we got was petty squabbles every 5 minutes. The shot at making this a heartfelt and life-changing movie was a swing and miss, although the effort was undeniable and noted.
Soul (2020)
A cartoon made for adults
I didn't expect to be writing this review at all, but I had to. This is Pixar's best work yet. For the first time since the pandemic, I decided to go to watch Soul at the local theatre, and left with more questions than when I began. The best part about the film is that it isn't entirely fiction and imagined. The settings are very much accurate to how Brooklyn really is, and Pixar didn't sugarcoat how difficult it is to be a jazz musician. In fact, the life of Joe Gardner, the main protagonist, embodies this fact.
This animation really moved me, because of how Pixar touched on difficult topics such as existential crisis and identity crisis with ease in such a delicate way. If you are looking for a film that's going to make you laugh, sad cry, happy cry, and ugly cry - this is the film you are looking for.