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Reviews
Liebes Kind (2023)
Intriguing, addicting
Pulled me in from the beginning! Writing, directing, acting, and cinematography all great. A mystery with intriguing characters, and a perspective not often seen in this genre. It can have triggers around abuse, perhaps even more around psychological, so definitely read the description. I found myself saying "oh my god, this show!" several times when something came to light. In speaking to others who have been watching it, we seem to share a highly favorable opinion and viewing experience. It seems like Germany, Sweden, Finland and that region really know how to produce this type of dark, slow, psychological thriller/drama, and this is one of the best I've seen. Highly recommend.
Deadloch (2023)
It gets better, loved it!
I started this series and almost stopped because of one over the top character....but i liked other bits of it so much that i stuck it out, and I am so glad I did! The character chilled out a bit, and the story line was quite engaging. Kate Box is great, and I just love her and loved seeing her take this lead and just OWN IT. IMO, the entire cast is awesome and the mystery keeps you guessing....and yes, it is a kind of dark comedy with quirky characters so you get some giggles too. I definitely urge people to stick it out, as i have just finished Series 1 and am realllllly hoping there is another.
Kevin Can F**k Himself (2021)
Dark and exceptional
This is actually quite brilliant, but it takes a minute to get used to the format....and you have to go in knowing it is dark. The unique style and approach seems to make it one of those creations that will limit popularity, which is disappointing because the writing is exceptional and the casting damn near perfect. I am glad i gave it a 2nd chance, and while I am disappointed it is ending after 2 seasons, I don't know where the arc could go beyond this so perhaps not totally surprised. I definitely recommend giving this a try, as long as you go in knowing it is a dark and disturbing series....highlighted by a very creative comparison to the façade of an 80s sitcom.
A League of Their Own (2022)
Surprisingly good!
I was skeptical that this show could be tolerable, let alone good, and after reading mixed reviews I knew I had to check it out.
I have no idea where the complaints about Abbi Jacobson are coming from, she suits the role of a confused and relatively sheltered young woman just fine. The standout performance is definitely D'Arcy Carden, imo anyway. Some reviewers complained about "Hollywood Liberal Agenda", which is just ignorant. The way women and POC were treated in that era is appropriately portrayed and justly criticized, as well as the issues around sexuality and sexual orientation.
Give it a try, if it's not for you it's easy to just walk away.
Heartstopper (2022)
The feel-good we all need
What can I add to what everyone else is saying about this? All I know is it made me smile, made my heart have all the warm fuzzies, and was superbly acted and directed. What a beautifully written and executed story. Watch it, maybe 2 or 3 times, and encourage everyone you know to do the same.
In from the Cold (2022)
Gets better
Ok, it's definitely one that could BE better, but if you can make it to ep 4 I think you'll enjoy it. It's a quirky premise, so not for everyone, but like an onion, layers reveal new and intriguing bits. A couple of the actors are pretty bad, which is unfortunate, but I got past that. All in all, it has potential and definitely entertaining if you have a lil patience.
Shadowplay (2020)
Exceptional, each episode pulls you in deeper
There are a great handful of articulate, comprehensive reviews, so I am going to keep mine simple:
This series basically hits all the points of a great, engaging historic mystery-drama. The writing, casting, acting, directing, set design, cinematography, and wardrobe are all fantastic. The characters are engaging, the mystery and intrigue of the storyline keep the viewer interested as layers are peeled away and details revealed. Definitely a top notch production.
Cinderella (2021)
Fun, modern, empowering
Honestly, I thought this was bound to be awful, so I was going to skip it....then I read the hugely divergent reviews and had to see for myself. I love musicals, and while this mostly used covers of music from the 70s to current, I did enjoy the music. In fact, Idina Menzel put Madonna to shame, imho.
Yes, this is campy, but it is a retelling of a fairy tale, so of course it is cheesy etc. The costumes and choreography are great, Camila does a great job, and yes, a great message to girls and women today. My actual rating is probably more of a 6.5, and I consider myself a conservative rater. If you're looking for something fun with good music and visually pleasing, not award-winning but entertaining, give this a try. I mean hey, you're watching from home, you can always hit "stop" if it doesn't entertain you.
Work in Progress (2019)
Smart, thoughtful, funny
Sometimes you don't realize how much you love a show until it returns for a 2nd season. I all but jumped for joy when season 2 debuted, and now 4 episodes in I say to myself "Wow! This is just one of the best shows ever!" Abby McEnany just writes with such vulnerability blended to perfection with wit, sarcasm and some true heart-tugging moments. Sometimes you want to throttle her character (especially season 1) and other times you want to hug her. McEnany takes us on a journey through a life lived, but ever evolving, and it's absolutely worth every minute.