Reviews

KIM'S CONVENIENCE (2016-2021) is a really funny family comedy series, following the ups and downs of a Korean-Canadian family and their family owned business, Kim's Convenience store. This show is really fun, likable and the cast is really great. They go through many different and humorous shenanigans and it's very entertaining to watch.

"The misadventures of a Korean-Canadian family running a convenience store."

Overall, this series is very funny and an entertaining series, the assorted cast is very lovable and entertaining as well. I enjoyed Appa and Umma most, but Jung and Janet as well, as well as all the other amusing side characters. A fun show and memorable family.

PARKS AND RECREATION (2009-2015) is a political comedy, mockumentary series. It follows the shenanigans of the Parcks and Recreational town officers of Indiana's small town, Pawnee. I initially watched this to help me out of a bad post-Office bender withdrawal phase (along with Modern Family, Arrested Development, Community etc.) This one helped the most and the characters really grew on me.

"The absurd antics of an Indiana town's public officials as they pursue sundry projects to make their city a better place."

Overall, this series was super hilarious. This series stars the funny Amy Poehler as Leslie Knope, and the brilliant Nick Offerman as Ron Swanson and a plethora of other hilarious and likable characters. Chris Pratt as Andy Dwyer is another great character! A great watch! Give Parks & Rec a chance!

MODERN FAMILY (2009-2020) is a family drama, comedy and mockumentary. This series follows the many hilarious and awkward shenanigans of the Pritchett-Dunphy families. This series is sweet, and engaging as well, making for an entertaining show to follow.

"Three different, but related, families face trials and tribulations in their own uniquely comedic ways."

Overall, this series is super funny, heartfelt and memorable. My favorite characters are the awkward Phil Dunphy (Ty Burrell) and hilarious Gloria Delgato-Pritchett (Sophia Vergara). The whole cast is really lovable though and made for a great ensemble casted show. A fun watch!

SMALLVILLE. (2001-2017) Let me just put this out there. Growing up, I was always into Marvel Comics, never really DC, except some Batman (because the range of cool villains). So I'm not a Superman fan, by any means. But I know the story, and I appreciate the concept of a superhero series based on the town and the time before they became the hero we all know.

Smallville was a show my family followed, back in the day. It was a mixed bag of stuff, part high school superhero soap opera romance, a teen drama full of sexual tension, the blooming of youthful first love, misunderstandings, love triangles, betrayals, rivalry and more.

Added to all the above, there is the strong family dynamic. Small town, farm boy life, alien from space, adoption story. A close knit family. Very touching elements that expand as the series grows. The family dynamic as well as the assortment of colorful villains, especially Lex Luther (Michael Rosenbaum) were always what drew me into it. The dynamic between Clark Kent (Tom Welling) and Lex Luther (Michael Rosenbaum) was a great watch.

"A young Clark Kent struggles to find his place in the world as he learns to harness his alien powers for good and deals with the typical troubles of teenage life in Smallville, Kansas."

Overall, this was a lighthearted, melodramatic and Superman inspired teen drama. Good fun.

LOST (2004-2010) was a interesting television show. It had a fascinating premise, talented and memorable cast, intriguing science fiction concepts throughout, but I could never get fully into it. The overall story always felt forced and incohesive, artificially drawn out for suspense and packed with silly cliff-hangers. In my opinion, this series was far over-hyped, and drawn out for far to long as well.

I remember feeling like I was watching an adventure styled soap opera, with less focus on the romance. Lots of he said / she said, cliff-hanger moments, bad cgi, betrayals and alliances, ever changing antagonists, shock moments (cue *audience gasps*). Again, the concept of this show, is really, REALLY good, but seeing it in action just didn't work for me.

"The survivors of a plane crash are forced to work together in order to survive on a seemingly deserted tropical island."

The cast did a really great job with this convoluted and chaotic script. I loved so many of the characters. The human aspect of this show is about the main thing it had going. Sadly, great cast and acting, and interesting premises don't make up for weak script and derailing plotlines.

If you watch anything by J. J. Abrams let it be his science fiction masterpiece Fringe. If you want a sci-fi series with a little bit of everything, mystery, action, suspense, romance, crime, then Fringe is your show. LOST on the otherhand, gets lost in its own artificial complexities and plots and never quite finds itself.

RESIDENT ALIEN was a fun sci-fi, comedy series about an alien from outer space, who crash lands to earth and then subsequently ends up in the small town of Patience, Colorado, filling in for the missing doctor there. Plenty of humorous shenanigans ensue, some cliche while others unexpectedly well done.

"A crash-landed alien takes on the identity of a small-town Colorado doctor and slowly begins to wrestle with the moral dilemma of his secret mission on Earth."

Overall, this series questions what it means to be human as well as examines human relationships and friendships. Alan Tudyk as the Alien aka Dr. Harry Vanderspiegle, was excellent and hilarious. I also enjoyed the characters of Asta Twelvetrees (Sara Tomko), D'Arcy Bloom (Alice Wetterland), Sheriff Mike Thompson (Corey Reynolds), Dp. Liv Baker (Elizabeth Bowen) and the Mayor Ben Hawthorne (Levi Fiehler) and quite a few others. This was a fun show.

BLACK SPOT (2017-2019) is a dark French crime drama, full of mystery, horror, suspense, and thrills. I must confess, I haven't watched much in terms of French cinema or television series before this, but this show was really captivating. Amazing gorgeous French forest location, great cast, believable sets, excellent cinematography, likable characters, and heavily atmospheric, like fog. I watched it in the original French tongue with English subtitles, so I can't speak to the English dubbs in any way.

"Villefranche is a small town without phone reception on the edge of a mysterious forest. The number of inhabitants is dwindling but there's a sharp rise in grisly crimes and eerie phenomena. Police Inspector Laurène, once the victim of a crime herself, keeps discovering fresh corpses."

This series was at first, seemingly simple, but as it went on it grew more strange and unexpected. I really enjoy dark crime series myself and this one has such intense, dreary atmosphere. Taking place in a remote French forest, near the secluded village Villefranche, and a dead zone in terms of technology, it gives very haunted and unsettling vibes, making for a very dark, gorgeous and yet interesting setting for a series. Here, viscous and dark crimes are perpetrated on the innocent.

The teams of investigators aren't the typical overly brilliant sleuths we frequently see in movies. They are average people, making mistakes with their human error, having unique characteristics and backgrounds. While some mistakes could have been avoidable I did enjoy the humanistic quality to them, vulnerable and imperfect and relatable. I enjoyed the team.

Overall this was a great watch, dark and interesting. Glad I caught it at last.

FORENSIC FILES II (2020) is a revival series of the popular original Forensic Files series. Narrated by Bill Camp, who is no Peter Thomas (the original narrator of FF), but not as bad as most reviewers are saying. It's still Forensic Files afterall and the cases are all very interesting, informative and watchable. Forensic science is very fascinating topic and this series always shines light on new aspects.

"Forensic Files II is a revival continuation of the long-running American documentary true crime series Forensic Files (1996-2011)."

Overall, this was a great series and hopefully will get better and better. Definitely still worth the watch.

FORENSIC FILES (1996-2011) is one of the best True Crime television series out there, especially in regards to forensics. Every episode or so, you will probably learn something new. A fascinating look behind the scenes with how criminal investigators solves crimes with DNA, organic material, fingerprints, skin particles, blood drops, fragments of clothing, or something else in the environment of the crime. This series offers a very fascinating glimpse. Good narration as well.

"A series featuring detailed accounts on how notable crimes and diseases were solved through forensic science."

This is a really great true crime tv show, one that stands a part. It's somehow dark, thrilling and addictive yet also calming and educational. A show to watch if interested in forensic sciences and criminal investigations.

THE FOLLOWING (2013-2015) is a series that had me confused. Mixed feelings. At times it was really interesting and thrilling even, but other times it was over-the-top and silly. It follows detective Ryan Hardy (Kevin Bacon) tries to solve a mysterious cult of serial killers summoned by the brilliant professor and killer Joe Carroll (James Purefoy).

"A brilliant, charismatic, and psychotic serial killer communicates with other active serial killers and activates a cult of believers who follow his every command."

Overall, this series was a weird mixture of ups and downs, good and bad. This was one of those rare shows I both loved and hated. While, at times it was cheesey, there was some thrilling parts as well. A decent series.

TRASH TRUCK is one of those rare kids show gems. Along with Puffin Rock, Curious George, and Bluey this show seems to treat kids like devoping human beings, offering life lessons of substance rather than the usual cotton candy fluff of the typical children show. Children are the next generation, and shows are educational.

"Six-year old Hank and his best pal, a giant trash truck, explore the world around them on fantastical adventures with their animal friends."

Overall, this is a very sweet, touching, and gorgeous series, with unique storytelling, family morals and values, and centered around a youthful friendship. And on the bright side, it's very calming to watch, not overly stimulating and hectic. Really appreciate the classy and mature way this show approaches children. Definitely a hit!

BLUEY is an adorable children's show, with a charming simple quality about it. The family of dogs are very enjoyable and likable for both kids and adults. The adult humor, if you can call it that, is cute and relatable to most parents, while the children humor is silly and innocent, believable for kids. This show is good for character building, social skills, relationship development, morals and education. It is imaginative and enjoyable. Like Puffin Rock in some ways (family of animals, life lessons, calming) it is a educational show as well, encourages children to develop logic and creativity.

On top of this, it seems to be far less over-stimulating than the bulk of kids shows out there, which have been proven to have an addictive and toxic quality on children's brains, causing a dopamine rush by the fast-pacing and high sensory input, flashing lights, obnoxious sound effects, catchy songs, intense color palettes, brainless plots, frame rate speed, etc. While those might be easier and seemingly more "fun" for a child, it's pure cotton candy in terms of mental and developmental nutrition, and does nothing to help in a child's growth, logic and understanding, moral character, impulse control and overall mental and emotional developments. Show like these help a child think and grow into healthy individuals.

"The slice-of-life adventures of an Australian Blue Heeler Cattle Dog puppy as she has fun with her family and friends in everyday situations."

This was a very sweet show to watch. The values are good (family, friendship, sharing etc.), the art is simple yet cute. It feels more calming than most shows out there and also offers good topics to chew on. My nephew seems to really enjoy it!

THE MENTALIST (2008-2015) was a pretty good crime drama series with an interesting plot and cast. Simon Baker plays the "Psychic" Mentalist consultant Patrick Jane, who aids the police in the search for the serial killer Red John, as well as other side cases.

There is a pretty good plot, but sometimes is bogged down by filler episodes and light heartedness that sometimes loosens the pace, and makes it feels less thrilling, almost as if the writers were trying to hard to drag out the plot.

"A famous "psychic" outs himself as a fake, and starts working as a consultant for the California Bureau of Investigation so he can find "Red John", the madman who killed his wife and daughter."

Overall, the was a fun watch.

HOUSE (2004-2012) is a medical television series that really took things to a whole new level, even while relaying on some old tropes and cliches. It made something fresh and new. The snarky, sarcastic, anti-social yet brilliant Dr. Gregory House, is brilliantly played by Hugh Laurie and he certainly carried the show.

This series is quite like a US version of Sherlock Holmes, if Holmes were a brilliant medical doctor.

"Using a crack team of doctors and his wits, an antisocial maverick doctor specializing in diagnostic medicine does whatever it takes to solve puzzling cases that come his way."

House is a great series, albeit some of the tactics get a bit tired in later seasons. Hugh Laurie's portayal certainly brings down the House (pun intended) and he strikes a very troubled yet memorable character.

ANNE WITH AN E (2017-2019) was a pretty decent series on it's own, but as a remake of Anne of Green Gables (the books and original drama), I felt that is was severely lacking, especially in having the spirit, magic and charm of the original. It was very well made, production value was visible and the cast was really great as well, overall. However, the modernization and forcibly altered script really detracted from the original story. The grimmer, bleaker plot also detracted from the tenderness of the original story as well, giving it a sadder, darker element.

Amybeth McNulty was excellent actress as Anne (nowhere near as powerful and spirited as Megan Followes, but hey, you can't top perfection) as well as Geraldine James as Marilla Cuthbert.

"The adventures of a young orphan girl living in the late 19th century. Follow Anne as she learns to navigate her new life on Prince Edward Island, in this new take on L. M. Montgomery's classic novels."

It really is a good show, but fans of the books and the original drama, (as I am), are seeking the same kind of magic, and sadly this just did not have it.

THE DEAD ZONE (2002-2007) is an excellent series based on the writings of Stephen King. It has drama, mystery, science fiction, and fantasy. I caught some of this years ago, but recently decided to watch it. As a series, this really intrigued me. It was far better than I had originally expected. Well done acting and story.

"Johnny had the perfect life until he was in coma for six years. When he awoke, he found his fiancee married to another man. His son doesn't know him. Everything's changed, including Johnny. With one touch, he can see things."

Overall, this was a very entertaining and interesting series. A hidden gem.

THE WALTONS (1972-1981) is a classic historical series revolving around an American family, the Waltons, during both their years of scarcity and years of plenty. The family is faced with many obstacles. This show is heavily drama, but there is some romance, comedy, and adventure as well.

"The life and trials of a 1930s and 1940s Virginia mountain family through financial depression and World War II."

This series reflects traditional values, small town loyalty and morality of families in those days and it oftens can be both heartwarming and bitter sweet to watch. Few shows really center around the themes of a loving family, hard worth ethic and simple pleasures in life. However, the series does, at times feels a bit cheesy and soapy, but there is still quite a bit to appreciate in it. A classic.

XENA: The Warrior Princess (1995-2001) was another great retro adventure fantasy series based around mythology, filled with action, drama, fantasy, comedy and romance, etc. Lucy Lawless is an amazing and kick*ss warrior, Xena, and Renee O'Conor plays a great sidekick bestie, as bard Gabrielle. Great chemistry.

"Xena, a mighty Warrior Princess with a dark past, sets out to redeem herself. She is joined by small town bard, Gabrielle. Together they journey the ancient world and fight for the greater good against ruthless Warlords and Gods."

Overall, Xen: The Warrior Princess is a really entertaining series and great to watch along with the related Hercules series.

HERCULES: The Legendary Journey (1995-1999) is a series based on the mythological Roman demi-god hero Hercules, son of Jupiter (in original Greek he was named Heracles, son of Zeus and Alcmene). Kevin Sorbo plays a very excellent, heroic version of Hercules. This series is full of action, drama, fantasy, comedy, romance and adventure.

"Hercules is half-man, half-god and a hero of fantastic strength. After his malevolent stepmother, Hera, kills his wife and children, he wanders about Earth with mortal best friend Iolaus, fighting evil and trying to overcome his loss."

Overall, this was a entertaining retro adventure fantasy series based on classic mythology and fun to watch. Watch along with Xena: The Warrior Princess.

WHO KILLED MALCOLM X? Was an interesting and informative series regarding the murder (assassination) of highly controversial political activist and civil rights leader, Malcolm X. This made for a very interesting examination of his turbulent life and his untimely death.

First of all, while I do tend to be alligned with the views presented in the documentary, I am well aware of Netflix's track record with its documentaries. They are notorious for producing one-sided documentaries with heavy distortion of evidence and facts, profiting big time on scandal and murder, and I therefore tend to take everything by them with a grain of salt. All documentary producers have some bias, mind you. Don't be fooled.

However, while there is much heresay presented here, as well as conjecture and "coincidence"... there is far too much for my taste. And the facts presented here, portray a very distressing prospect. Some times there is no such thing as coincidence and some times, more often than not, the easiest solution is the often the correct one. Terrible and disgusting as it is to fathom.

"Activist Abdur-Rahman Muhammad begins his own investigation into the perplexing details surrounding the assassination of civil rights leader Malcolm X."

Overall, while this didn't fully straightforwardly answer the question, (even though the truth is rather plain to see, for anyone with eyes) it did shed light on the issues surrounding the man and his life long fight, and thos ethat wished to destroy him. The conclusion is very upsetting and infuriating that your mind has trouble accepting it, even though there is only one real possibility, as least given the evidence presented here.

DARK CRYSTAL: AGE OF RESISTANCE (2019) was an amazing and epic series. I absolutely hated that it had been cancelled. Understandably the budget was probably huge, and it visibly showed; this is a true quality series at its finest. Puppetry and animatronics, hand painted and created world, beautiful cgi, wonderful music. Beautiful, immersive storytelling, rich world building, magical creative world, and a fascinating array of characters. Just an all around artistic masterpiece. Should NEVER have been cancelled.

As a fan of the original film Dark Crystal, this series really lived up to the original in so many ways, while adding so much depth, dimension and development. Prequel, sequel series rarely do this to an original, cult classic. Not only that but the newer characters were all so interesting and well designed, the world wonderfully envisioned and the story very rich and compelling.

"Return to the world of Thra, where three Gelfling discover the horrifying secret behind the Skeksis' power, and set out to ignite the fires of rebellion and save their world."

This series is a fresh, much welcomed, highly-original adventure fantasy epic, inspired by the creative world of Thra, in the Dark Crystal universe. Beautiful, mysterious and dark. One of a kind gem!

Netflix, bring it back!

LITTLE HOUSE ON THE PRAIRIE (1974-1983) was a series full of heart and soul, romance and adventure, based on the true lives of the Ingalls family as told by Laura Ingalls Wilder herself in her same named book series. Rooted in history but filled with drama and heartache, this series is a timeless class, one that I had watched all the reruns of on daytime tv in the 90's.

"The life and adventures of the Ingalls family in the nineteenth century American Midwest."

A beautiful historical series of life on the American midwest prairie, one that hold viewers by its simplicity and tenderness, its drama and adventure, and overall its sweet glimpse into family life during that time. This series reflects traditional family life in American history, with heartwarming moments, to bittersweet experiences. A beautiful show.

( R. I. P. MICHAEL LANDON )

THE OUTER LIMITS (1995-2002) was a great science-fiction anthology series. A great remake and follow up series to the original with many creative episodes. There is a lot here to enjoy and watch, with plenty of thoughtful episodes to ponder over. The themes are heavily sci-fi with topics like space and aliens generally taking center stage.

"A modern revival of the classic science fiction horror anthology show The Outer Limits (1963). Episodes often have twist-endings and involve aliens. Sometimes, a story from one episode continues in a later episode."

Overall, this series was a very fun, entertaining, and watchable show, just an overall great sci-fi anthology series. Great retro 90's television and a great revival show as well!

THE OUTER LIMITS (1963-1965) is a classic sci-fi anthology series. Like other classic black and white anthology series (Twilight Zone, One Step Beyond, Night Gallery, etc.) this series was excellent, but focuses more solely on science fiction elements.

"An anthology series of insightful science fiction tales."

Overall, this was a really great classic early science fiction series, very entertaining and thoughtful, great if you love other similar anthology series of the time and have a special interest in topics of science fiction with aliens, robots etc. This series is fun and rewatchable, a great throwback show.