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Reviews
Dune: Part Two (2024)
How much were people paid to give this a high rating?
Including - I might add - the critics who appear to have been smoking crack to give it the rating they did. Ah well, many years of reading critics reviews have shown that they have no basis in reality or how good a film actually is.
I made the awful choice today to watch 1 & 2 back to back. I haven't been sleeping well so I figured worst case I get a nap. I'm still annoyed that either it was not publicized or I missed it that Part 1 was just part 1 so I felt compelled to buy Part 2. Duh - it is right in the name! No clue what I was thinking. Anyway, right off the bat I found the editing disjointed and a massive lack of context. And that was Part 1! Oh and I have read the first few books so I actually know what is supposed to be going on! I found myself shaking my head and wondering what people unfamiliar with the story would make of it. And that was the better of the 2 films.
Speaking of smoking crack - is that how they came up with the story line for Part 2? Cause WHAT????? Did they fire the writers and pull people off the street to write the script? Did they take the storyboards and replace random parts with scenes unrelated to the rest of the story? No clue. On the up side for the 3rd time trying to watch this I did get a nice nap in the middle of it.
I have digital versions of all 3 - The 80s version which actually explains what is going on and follows the core story line quite well, and Parts 1 & 2 of this travesty. If someone is interested in a fairly faithful representation, watch the 80s version and give this abomination a pass. I can safely say I will NOT be buying Part 3 if it ever comes out. I'll wait until it streams for free - shouldn't take long if it follows the path of its predecessors being incomprehensible.
So now that I've given my thoughts on the story lines, let's talk actors. The 2 main - I don't get it. Any what is on with Zendaya looking like she wants to plunge a crysknife into Chalmet the whole time? There are some amazing actors in this film but those 2 are not them. And I have to blame the horrible script for any failings on the part of the other actors. Again, except Chalmet and Zendaya. Maybe it was the director's fault as well as the script. No telling.
The one positive thing I will say is that Parts 1 & 2 did benefit from the improved effects that are available now vs when the 80s version was made. There is some spectacular scenery, but someone thought it was a good idea in both to have jarring transitions between scenes. Cinematography 101 failure? That combined with the quizzical look on my face as the story lines took bizarre twists throughout parts of 1 and all of 2 made this an epic fail.
No clue what is on with all of the high ratings unless they are from people who subscribe to the logic that if it is convoluted and unintelligible enough it must be intellectual and a good film (NOT). Or they got paid for their rating.
Muriel's Wedding (1994)
Puzzled by what is supposed to be funny!!???? Not even a little.
I had never seen the film but was intrigued by the glowing reviews about how hysterically funny it is, and I love Toni Collette, so I finally bit the bullet and bought it.
I spent the entire film wondering exactly what was supposed to be so funny? I found it sad, cringe-worthy, and couldn't wait for it to end. But I stuck it out in hopes there would finally be an actual funny moment - not just cheap verbal abuse at someone's expense. That moment never arrived and I kicked myself for getting sucked in by the reviews.
I have never found that kind of "comedy" amusing. I saw the couple of reviews that criticized it and I should have given those more weight. It is highly unlikely I will ever watch it again.
Tigers on the Rise (2024)
Wonderful film. But what happened to the injured tiger?
Wonderful film about an amazing group of people in India working hard to preserve Tigers and foster a safe and tolerant relationship between Tigers and Villagers across the country. The loose group includes filmmakers, forest protectors, and veterinary experts all contributing to this exceptional work that ensures that both Tigers and the people living near them can live together peacefully. In instances where there is a Tiger causing problems and fear, they have a process to move the tiger to a safe environment where they will not come in contact with people.
The film is beautiful and includes rare and unique scenes of majestic Tigers (and other animals) in family groups never before filmed at such close proximity. There are no scenes of killing or other activity that could be inappropriate for younger viewers and provides educational content as well as aesthetic cinematography. My only complaint is there was no follow up on the young male who was injured in a conflict with another Tiger. It left me with lingering concerns and I would have appreciated confirmation that he recovered fully.
The dedication of this group and the country in general is impressive and this film is a testament to their dedication, commitment, and success.
Special Unit 2 (2001)
Watching the DVDs again.
I love this show! I periodically binge watch it end to end.
My only complaint (other than it got canceled too soon) is that the audio engineer should have been fired! I don't have a particular opinion one way or the other of the music selection itself - not my favorite but not the worst. My issue is the abysmal mix. The music is so loud I have to have the remote handy to mute it whenever the music comes blasting on. The only option in order to hear the dialog is to do the mute thing or suffer the ear splitting music volume, both of which detract from the enjoyment of the show. If it wasn't a consistent issue I would guess it is a one episode issue but unfortunately that is not the case.
As to the complaints that it is a rip of MIB or other similar movie/show is like saying every space movie/show is a rip of Star Trek or Star Wars. Not true. The stories are fun and unique. Sad that it did not continue!
Gods of the Deep (2023)
Lots of issues
1. On the surface if it is that cold why no breath?
2. Really unrealistic (even in a sci-fi movie) time to break depth records
3. The water would be freezing. Not even a wetsuit in the remote vehicle.
4. Lame "pressurization" process, and massive gap re the remote. Walls??? They never put them on. Water leaking in would be highly pressurized, not just dribbling in.
5. Seriously useless containment of a sample!!! Even if they were only collecting rock samples, they should have followed decent process if they wanted it believable.
6. Sad graphics for the sub. Audio mixer as the controls.
7. No context for the backstory??
8. Why is the older man naked and rubbing something on his body?
An hour in and I'm playing games on my iPad with the movie on my tv.... Keeping it on to see if it starts making sense by the end. Not holding my breath....
Ghosts (2021)
Love it! Better than the UK version! (Sorry)
While I typically prefer the UK versions of productions, in this instance this version is much better. This version has an awesome cast which is part of the reason for my preference. Rose McIver became one of my favorite actors in iZombie and has continued to be so in Ghosts. Utkarsh Ambudkar is perfect casting as Jay (and is big fun in Pitch Perfect too)! I can't imagine better casting for any of the ghosts! It is this wonderful synergy between the characters and actors that make the show so fun. I'm very bummed there will only be 10 episodes in season 3 but I am very hopeful for a prompt season 4 with many more episodes!
I recently tried watching the UK version again to supplement my Ghosts viewing but I just haven't warmed to the characters after 6 episodes.
The Crown (2016)
Yes, it is a drama but it is close enough...
... to fact to further cement how much I despise Charles and Camilla. I thought Diana made a critical error marrying him, an attitude which continued to grow as time went on. He is - IRL and on the show - a massive PUTZ! A temperamental spoiled brat so completely selfish and self-involved it astonishes me that anyone might find him honorable. His only redeeming qualities including support for the arts and climate change are not enough to successfully counter his behavior for years! I was never a particular fan of the British royalty, I honestly did not much care about them one way or the other. However, my opinion changed somewhat when Diana's humanitarian actions became public in hopes she would be a good influence on the rest of them. A hope that was in vain with the exception of Prince Harry. I'm at the beginning of Season 5 which so many reviews panned, so it will be interesting to see if I agree... Not sure how much more I can stomach of Charles - he and his tart are bad enough in real life, I don't need them to ruin my entertainment as well so I may stop watching shortly.
The Love Boat: Spain Cruise: The Matadors/Mrs. Jameson Comes Out/Love's Labors Found/Marry Me, Marry Me: Part 2 (1986)
Disappointed at the glamorizing of bullfighting
I acknowledge that this was filmed over 30 years ago but that doesn't excuse having such a brutal and senseless "sport" as a central part of this episode! In my opinion at no point is bullfighting acceptable.
Despite the protests during the episode that the bull is not killed, it is still tortured. It is baffling how anyone can consider that entertainment.
There are plenty of episodes that have slightly cringeworthy moments, but on the whole I enjoy the nostalgia watching them. This is NOT one of them!
Final thought- so very over the "Mermaids". Glad they didn't add them until Season 9 - I would have had to stop watching.
Star Trek: Strange New Worlds: Subspace Rhapsody (2023)
As a rule I'm not a fan of musical episodes in TV shows, but....
Basically, I figure if I want to see a musical, I will watch a musical. From Rogers & Hammerstein to Gilbert & Sullivan there are plenty out there to enjoy. So when I saw the direction this episode was heading I said a mental "uh oh" to myself and figured I would probably not watch the whole thing. But......
OMG! Who knew what amazing singing voices the cast have! There were some truly stellar solos in addition to the excellent ensemble numbers! I was also impressed at the compositions - the melodies were very catchy. I'm hoping I don't wake up at 3am singing one of them in my head.
So despite my usual distaste of musical episodes in TV shows (particularly SciFi shows), I thoroughly enjoyed this one and will be sure to relish watching it again! Note that I'm baffled by other reviews that cite the musical Buffy episode as being so much better - it is probably the only Buffy episode I have never been able to stomach. Hated every minute, and never watched the whole thing. So there is that - if you loved that episode like a few reviewers have commented, you will likely not agree with my assessment.
I love this series and this episode just added to my enjoyment!
Good Omens (2019)
Finished Season 2.... CAN'T WAIT FOR 3!!!!!
Come on Amazon - we want Season 3. We NEED SEASON 3!!!!!
Based on the article I just read (while Season 2 end credits rolled...) Amazon is waiting to make a decision on Season 3 until they see the viewer stats on Season 2. I will be watching it again and again!
Already a huge fan of David Tennant (Dr Who) and Michael Sheen (Underworld), I was thrilled when the announcements and previews for the show first came out. Utterly brilliant casting! Add to that the "quirky" writing of Terry Pratchett (RIP-if you haven't seen Hogfather, give it a try...) and Neil Gaiman and you have a vastly unique and entertaining experience!
I hope Amazon will not keep us waiting for the next adventures of Crowley, Aziraphale, and the rest of this intriguing bunch!
Grey's Anatomy (2005)
Like the show, really DISLIKE MAGGIE! Meredith is no better....
Obnoxious, condescending, selfish witch- Maggie makes my blood pressure rise and I yell at the Tv screen when she is onscreen! Can't put the names I call her in this review. Make her GO AWAY! She and her holier than thou sister Meredith just set my teeth on edge with the way they think they are always right and everyone else is always wrong. UG! Case in point - a man moved across the country for Meredith but does she even bother to tell him before sending a global email that she is moving to Boston? Nope. Selfish. And now in season 19 ep16 Amelia is displaying cluelessness about her horrible sisters. Can't wait for Maggie to JUST GO TO CHICAGO! But there are enough other characters that are not obnoxious to make it worthwhile to watch! Guess I'll just have to keep yelling at the Tv. Final note - sad that the heartless reviewers that have a problem with the societal topics display a lack of self reflection!
Second Chance (2016)
Typical Network STUPIDITY!!! Cancel another great show!
Why oh why do Networks think it is a good plan to cancel shows with the slightest bit of intelligence in favor of mind blowingly USELESS shows? STUPID! And alienating! Why get invested in a new show when the likelihood is that it will disappear just after I get hooked? So instead of getting viewers pumped about shows, they fail because- well - why should I bother?
So I've finished the LAST EPISODE! And boy am I very annoyed about a few things.
1. Why do I have to write so much to complete my review? Seems excessive.
2. Hate Otto. Glad he and Connor Griff bite it! Painfully and slowly!
3. I abhor shows that leave you on a cliffhanger!!!!!!!
4. Power corrupts. Absolute power corrupts absolutely.
The Pretender: The Inner Sense: Part 2 (2000)
WHAT IS WRONG WITH THE NETWORKS?!?
I love this show. So inevitably, the Network chooses to end it without any resolution leaving an extremely dissatisfied taste in my mouth. In my opinion, ending a series with a final episode like this shows a distinct disrespect for the fans and the world created over the last 4 years! It is perverse and downright nasty to end it this way! There are supposed to be one or more movies that I suppose might clear things up a bit, but I haven't been able to find them.
I'm sick of getting invested in shows and having some jackass at the network decide to end it in favor of criminally STUPID so-called "reality Tv" shows which usually show people at their worst and have no redeeming value (exceptions do exist but not a lot).
I just finished watching this episode so the anger is very fresh.
The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power (2022)
Galadriel is ruining this...
Could be the writing, could be the direction, could be the actress. I was looking forward to seeing the show with great anticipation! As a fan of the books and films, the casting and production values on the films faithfully represented the books. As the main character in the series, fair or not much of the tone of the story is set by that person. If the viewer is not invested in what happens to them, it is difficult to maintain anticipation for what happens next in the story. There are many elements I love - but my antipathy (edging towards outright dislike) for Galadriel may overshadow the entire show for me. 5 episodes in, maybe that will change if it is the writing or direction. If it is the actress- game over I'm afraid.
Dance Monsters (2022)
Feel bad for the dancers - terrible judges
Almost stopped watching several times because the judges so clearly have favorites and made bizarre decisions. I give full credit to the dancers for accepting some truly questionable decisions with class and grace. Given the 250k on the line the judges should be making fair decisions.
Not even bothering to watch the final. If there is another season I won't bother watching unless they get some fair judging. And no, I don't know any of the competitors.
By the way- Who is this Lele? At least I have heard of the other judges. Fake window dressing! Really - cried? Bull. And she really is nothing special as a dancer from what I've seen.
The Real Love Boat (2022)
Finale results = thumbs DOWN
The challenges did not test their connections. Whole format is not about fostering a real relationship although some couples were able to forge a real connection despite this. Not the winners who I suspect spent their time together on strategy to win the prizes, not on the relationship. Their choice but it shows the flaws in the show.
The one couple in the finale that should have gotten first got third. The one that got first should have gotten third. I don't believe Emily (least favorite person) had an actual connection to new guy and she completely turned my stomach on how she manipulated Marty and then threw him under the bus. Will not watch if there is another season.
A California Christmas (2020)
Only made it 1/3 of the way through
4.5 stars.
First, I almost turned it off in the first 5 minutes thanks to really annoying music choices. It did not get better.
Beyond that I found it trite and with sub-par acting. Lou was the only redeeming bright spot. The story was completely predictable. That said predictable is not always a bad thing. If the actors are engaging and you become immersed in the story, then predictable isn't bad- more like catching up with an old friend you haven't seen for a while. You know their stories and they know yours but you still enjoy the retelling. This is not that kind of predictable.
To be fair it may have improved later on, but I was unwilling to invest the time to find out.
The Blacklist: Dr. Laken Perillos (No. 70) (2021)
Please kill off Elizabeth!!!!
I totally disagree with the petulant child reviews about Laverne Cox. She is an excellent actress but apparently beyond the appreciation of immature viewers who can't discern subtlety.
My only complaint is the continuing storyline where these men continue to believe Elizabeth isn't stone cold psycho - she really needs to die- sooner rather than later! Not sure how much more I can take of their wide eyed denial of how far from redeemable she is. Her hypocrisy is intolerable and it is ruining what started as an original and compelling series which has become annoying. I'm only pushing through to see her get killed off.
Hawaii Five-0 (2010)
Losing interest in Season 7...
Almost without exception I love the first seven seasons. However, I am definitely less enthralled with the exit of Grace Park and Daniel Dae Kim. They were core part of the ensemble cast, and The network made a huge error and not doing everything they could to retain them. I also agree with another review that said that the Danny character has become quite annoying and the sniping between McGarrett and Danny is starting to turn me off. I'm glad they finally formalized Jorge as part of the team, and it is nice to see Willie Garson in a fun role - I miss seeing him since he has passed away. I bought the entire series, I wish I had remembered that Grace and Daniel were not in the entire series.
The Good Liar (2019)
Do only women understand this plot?
I don't understand the reviews that rant about the plot. Guilty conscience? As a woman I totally related to Helen Mirren's character and understood her motivation. Excellent acting by everyone in the film, and the plot was interesting. Was it their best film? No, but then again the actors in this film have an extremely high bar to surpass to make that happen. I enjoyed it and will watch it again.
The Orville (2017)
Continue to love the show and hope for Season 4...
But I really can't stand the Charley character and can't fathom their tolerance for her blatant insubordination! I want to slap her every time she opens her mouth. I find her intolerance out of step with the rest of the crew.
One other pet peeve- many of the crew (Charley...) seem to forget that Isaac was following orders. They seem to think it is fine if their crew does unsavory things when they follow orders (lights on the Krill ship that killed people...) but fail to accept that he had orders too - orders he ultimately disregarded in order to save them. He turned against his 'people' making himself an outcast in order to save them!
Gripes aside- love the show!!!
UPDATE: I continue to love the show in general but abhor Anne Winters' character Charly Burke and hope she is not part of the show in the future.
Gone Baby Gone (2007)
Very disappointed
I bought it sight unseen because it has some of my favorite actors in it and it had high ratings. It was not worth it even on sale.
Why? Many reasons but the highlights: I had a hard time caring about most of the characters. Not showing the little girl right from the start made concern for her very abstract resulting in a very detached feeling throughout the film.
The ending was not a surprise to me at all. Casey Affleck's character made the choice to call the cops because he made it about HIM not what was best for the little girl which made me want to cheer when Michelle's character left him. If I could have slapped Helene I would have as she is running out the door for a date shortly after her little girl is recovered. She won't change and her daughter will suffer for it (or would if it were reality).
Overall a very disappointing film which I blame largely on Ben Affleck because these are excellent actors. Many of his choices made the film tedious instead of suspenseful. I should not have believed the ratings. Highly unlikely I will every watch it again.
Hellboy (2019)
Lousy audio mix ruins it
I can't really comment on the dialog since the audio was so poorly mixed that much was inaudible! The music in many scenes drowns it out leaving major gaps in the story! As a prior sound engineer I have a little credibility on the topic. As far as the story, seems interesting and the visuals are good. But I still prefer the first two films.
Welcome to Earth (2021)
Interesting and absolutely stunning cinematography
I'm only half way through the first episode (will update if my opinion changes as I proceed through the episodes...) but so far I am entranced! It is visually stunning and fascinating to experience this amazing adventure! Sometimes having a 'celebrity' involved can ruin a production but this is NOT the case here. Will Smith brings a genuine dimension to these unique experiences. He does a great job of explaining things he is learning in an entertaining yet serious way, and he is authentic in his nervousness and the fears that he is confronting. While his films show more extreme adventures, as he acknowledges - this is real. I'm truly impressed and will continue watching!
The Blacklist (2013)
Hate Elizabeth. Please kill off that character!
I've plowed through season 8 episode 2 and it is by sheer stubbornness that I have made it this far because of this character! There are many good characters but she is NOT one of them and she is ruining the show.