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The Gone (2023– )
9/10
Enjoyable slow burner...
9 May 2023
Like most Kiwis I suffer from cultural cringe, and I was only watching because I know someone who knows someone on the show.

Therefore I was pleasantly surprised by a mostly well acted crime drama. Yes, there are some clichés like the cop with a troubled past, and someone returning home to their small town to confront some unresolved family dramas. Acushla-Tara Kupe is very good as Diana Huia. Richard Flood does a solid job. There's a nice blend of Maori culture and language.

The story is well-paced, and New Zealand's scenery makes an impression as always. I hope it finds an appreciative audience overseas, we're too harsh on our own.
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Tongan Ninja (2002)
3/10
Bad, bad movie (contains minor spoilers)
9 January 2005
Warning: Spoilers
I just saw this movie on DVD. It was truly, truly awful. I tried to like it.

Yes, I understood it was a spoof, but really, it was appalling. The jokes fell flat. The dubbing which at first was amusing, became very irritating.

I couldn't see what market the film was aimed at. No matter which one it was, I feel it missed on all points.

For no reason, there was at least one brief musical scene (when Chef Guy thinks Sione is a restaurant customer) that just further detracted from the plot line. I don't remember any musical scenes in any Bruce Lee movies.

The only amusing bits on the DVD were the extras.

The Beat Girls performing at the Bar in the club scene was one of the very very few highlights.

Don't waste your time unless you're a kiwi who likes early Bruce Lee movies.
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