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Reviews
S.W.A.T.: Seizure (2018)
Better than most in its genre
I watch a lot of crime/action TV. I'm also picky, and I almost never rate a single episode in a series. But in my opinion, this was one of the best episodes I've seen. Not just of SWAT (which can be cheesy, and you'll get bits of that still here), but of action TV. The writing, character development, layering of plot lines, the action sequences, acting, pace - all excellent.
I was drawn into characters I had previously cared very little about. The meaning and power of SWAT, both fictionally and realistically, became tangible to me. I just really liked this episode. And this was the episode that made me commit to continuing to watch the series. Very well done.
The Mole (2022)
Addictive Concept but Missed Connection
First let me say I've come to love "reality" television - that while it's over-the-top at times, the sense that a real human is behind the screen draws me into their story. I also love spy shows and mysteries. So I was pumped about this show, and the first several episodes had me hooked. There were so many characters sabotaging, the Australian views were incredible, and there was a fun energy in the cast. Above all, I wanted to see if my prediction about the mole was right, so I kept watching.
But, a small missing piece grew into a gaping disconnect when I realized that 6 or 7 episodes in, I knew NOTHING about these people. I saw no footage of them interacting during down times that weren't missions or quizzes to see their personalities come to life. Their confessionals were SOLELY about the mole and the missions, nothing else, so I knew nothing about their lives outside of the game. We didn't get to watch them interact off-script, and that started to feel empty.
"The Mole" needed Survivor-esque moments where a player catches two people forming an alliance, or finds them plotting. What about times where characters get to read letters or watch video from their family? Why are these people on this show? The "real" drama was just missing here, as was character building. By the end, I found I didn't care who won the money. And once it became more obvious who the mole was, the show dragged - it appeared the contestants felt that as well.
I hope they continue and build the concept, but if it continues as only a game show without any "real" people or vulnerability, I don't see this lasting beyond another season.
Top Gun: Maverick (2022)
Better than the original - by a long shot
And one of the best movies I've seen in a long time. Writing, direction, casting, and cinematography- all 10/10 highly recommended. Would see it again.
Blade Runner 2049 (2017)
I watched this so I could warn you
Believe the reviews that say this is SLOOOOOW. I fast-forwarded multiple minutes of film without missing a beat of the plot or dialogue and finally stopped with an hour left and read the ending on wikipedia. I will say I have not seen the original nor can I offer true movie critic insight on the blade runner storyline. However, as a sci-fi/ fantasy fan, I found this dry - lacking in both drive from the characters and true emotional buy-in from the viewer. I was hopeful to see more of Harrison Ford but didn't in my 90 minutes of viewing. (Sorry Harrison!) Ryan Gosling's acting is the only reason this got above 3 stars for me and the only reason I watched for as long as I did. I would not recommend you spend money on this film unless you're a diehard Bladerunner fan. Thankfully I watched for free and the only fruit of my 90 minutes was: 1. seeing how freakishly close Alexa is becoming to "Joi" (Another point for the film's narrative about AI); 2. Ryan Gosling; and 3. I get the opportunity to warn other dystopian fans by writing this review.
The Morning Show (2019)
Intriguing, but over-dramatized at times
The behind-the curtain look at contemporary issues drew me in and was led by some all-stars. Definitely hooked me! There are some over-the-top dramatized sequences that feel like they could use the laughs we are used to getting from people like Carrell. My other complaint is the over-used 's that made me wonder how many times they had to drop the f-bomb to get an MA rating. The profanity feels forced, uncomfortable and takes away from the storyline.
American Idol: The Search for a Superstar (2002)
New and Improved (by a LOT)
I voted for Kelly Clarkson then stopped watching for over a decade. Now, I binge watch episodes on Hulu! Katy, Lionel, and Luke are a great blend of realistic and encouraging and have a great rapport between them. Auditions have become chock full of inspirational stories rather than a laughing stock. I will say sometimes they could use a a little dose of Simon to say no to people who just don't make the cut. But it's enjoyable to watch, more real at the beginning than the voice. I hope it keeps getting renewed and we get another Kelly or Carrie out of the deal!
The Resident (2018)
Develops well as it continues
I don't even like medical dramas, and I like this one. Many of the reviews here are from those who only watched the pilot, which I admit showed a rather surface-level power clash of the two main characters. But as the show has gone on (I just finished S1 E6), it has gotten increasingly interesting and much smoother to watch. I mainly started watching because of Matt Cuzchry, and he holds down the cast with a strong performance every episode. I am fascinated with their exploration of corruption in hospitals (although I think it is exaggerated at times, but what drama isn't?!), and they do weave that theme into every episode.
Good overall mix of medical drama, a romance, and individual character stories that have gotten more complex and real. Looking forward to seeing how this plays out!
The Incredible Hulk (2008)
Face Palm
A lot of scenes left me and my friend shaking our heads or laughing... and not because they were trying to be funny. Most notably, Liv Tyler repeatedly says Bruce's name in a breathy voice that became laughable. She seems to try too hard to act the calm presence, and it doesn't come off quite right. Ed Norton doesn't seem to fit the part of the Hulk either - maybe because he has too many bad boy roles in his past to get over in order to see him as a super hero. Predictable storyline, less than decent acting/writing - sadly, not to the quality of the current Marvel movies or TV series (namely Captain America, Avengers, Arrow). It was interesting to get more background on the Hulk, but overall a B- movie.