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Reviews
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II (2022)
Better Than 2019 But Not By Much
Modern Warfare II is definitely an improvement on the previous title but not by much at the moment.
The campaign was an exhilarating ride from start to finish with interesting characters and memorable locations. The cartel aspect was easily the greatest part of the games setting and will be remembered fondly. Alejandro Vargas was an amazing new character that breathed some much needed fresh air into the modern warfare series, much like Russel Adler from Black Ops Cold War. Unfortunately there was no stand out mission like Clean House from modern warfare 2019 but this games missions flow together very well. The new General Shepherd is a different take on the memorable villain from the original title but managed to hold his own as conniving and meticulous. The credits scene was very exciting and I'm very intrigued about the next campaign.
The multiplayer is an improvement on 2019 but it still has its issues. Majority of the maps are yet again quite forgettable however there are some pretty good maps in there such as: Farm 18, Mercado Las Almas, The Embassy and Crown Raceway. There is once again no traditional prestige system which is utterly ridiculous since majority of players are sick of the new one, and skill based match making is as rampant as ever destroying the fun. Many feature are missing such as Barracks, a leaderboard, medals, customisable reticles and a split screen mode. This is ridiculous for a game that had years of development time.
Some of the positives include a very different take on the weapon skins system, it's well thought out and you'll need to play for ages just to get everything which is good for replay ability. The new game modes such as Knockout and Prisoner Rescue completely carry this game at the moment because they are extremely fun and addictive. Updates and future maps seem to be free once again which is consumer friendly and this game will be a two year title instead of the traditional one game every year. This gives infinity ward more time to add many more things to this game.
Overall this is a slight improvement but it's not a much better game than the last. However you can still have plenty of fun with it, looking forward to the upcoming updates.
Better Call Saul: Saul Gone (2022)
Truly amazing
After seven years, this masterpiece has finally come to an end and it did not disappoint. This entire final season has been a rollercoaster of emotion, from the deaths of Nacho, Howard and Lalo, to the end of Jimmy and Kim's chaotic relationship. Saul Gone provides everything needed for a final episode to be outstanding.
Highlights from this episode was the very deep opening conversation between Mike and Jimmy (which was set during the Bagman episode), Saul using Bill Oakley as his lawyer, Saul arriving to court in his typical funky fashion, the Walt and Chuck flashback, the prisoners chanting Saul's name on the prison bus and I screamed when Marie appeared on screen. The emotional impact of Saul changing his name back to Jimmy McGill at the end of court was so groundbreaking for his character development.
I love how the big three from breaking bad all had different fates. Walt became the most evil so as a result, died. After all the suffering Jesse endured, he managed to escape and find peace. Last but not least Jimmy decided to stop fiddling the system and face punishment for his crimes.
A huge thank you to Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould for creating this masterpiece, farewell Better Call Saul.
Peaky Blinders: Lock and Key (2022)
Bizarre
The final deal has been done, and it's massively disappointing. Firstly, the death of Michael Gray has to be one of the most underwhelming and poorly written deaths of any character in a television show. They'd been hyping him up to be the big bad guy for two seasons now and he's killed off pretty much instantly, I have no idea why he was in prison for 90% of this season instead of making moves against Tommy, and it was so predictable that Tommy put the bomb in the other car. The final conversation they had was actually somewhat decent, but it all happened way too fast, I have no idea what the writers were thinking.
Secondly, they absolutely botched Billy Grade's death, we don't even know how the Peaky Blinders figured out that he was a rat and why they didn't even tell Finn, but for some reason they let Duke (a character that was introduced two episodes ago) in on it. What?!?!?!?
The big gunfight between Arthur Shelby and Captain Swing was very well made, it was great to see Uncle Charlie and Jeremiah in action, however there was a severe lack of tension in it. They wasted Captain Swing as a character, they could've done so much more with her but they introduced too many other villains and then chose to do nothing with them. Her death was underwhelming too.
Why wasn't Jack Nelson in this episode?? They had been making such a big deal out of him all season and last episode his plans were starting to fall into place, and then they don't even include him in the finale. What?!?!?!?!?!?
Why did Ada play such a small role in this episode? She's been a main character since the first season and she's done absolutely nothing this whole season, the entire Shelby family has been so disconnected that the tone for this season has been so off and so distant from what this show has been about. We didn't even get to see Haydn Stagg in this episode either, what a waste of Stephen Graham's talent.
In the end it turns out Tommy was never sick and it was just a ploy by Oswald Mosley. It just makes the rest of this season feel pointless, like the writers needed an excuse for Tommy to get rid of the opposition. I have no idea why they left everything to be solved in the upcoming Peaky Blinders film, they definitely had no idea what to do with this season.
Overall this was such a disappointing ending to a disappointing final season, I really feel like this show should've ended with season four. At least then it would've gone out on a high note. I'm at a loss for words...
Peaky Blinders: The Road to Hell (2022)
The Penultimate
So the penultimate episode for the whole show has finally come, and it's a mixed bag. This episode is a much needed improvement over the last four episodes but it's still quite slow.
Firstly it was about time we saw Finn again and he's now got a woman, strangely they didn't even provide an explanation for his absence, it's not a big problem but still, the writers could have come up with some explanation. This episode also gave us the return of Linda at long last, she's agreed to give Arthur a second chance but she has no desire to be in a relationship with him.
Speaking of Arthur, he was much better in this episode. We finally got to see the Arthur we know and love again, and I hope this continues into the next. I was glad to see the return of Billy again and I'm relieved the writers didn't just forget about him or the fact that he's the mole inside the Peaky Blinders. Seeing him kill that poor guy was very well done and provided some decent character development. That scene in the bathhouse was absolutely intense, especially when Jack showed up and had him by the balls (literally). Jack knows that he's a mole and needs him for a job, about time his plans are coming into place.
We got to see a lot of Duke Shelby too in this episode, it's nice to see Tommy sort of connect to someone and talk about some events from the past, but I can't help but think how pointless this character is and why the writers decided to introduce him so late into the show.
This is where the problem lies, I feel like the writers struggled massively while creating this season and realised there wasn't much content left, which is why they scrapped season seven in favour of a film, and started to introduce a character like Duke. The death of Helen McCrory really affected this season and there isn't a good replacement for her character either, Aberama Gold would have done the job well but they sadly killed him off last season. Another issue is how spread out everyone is from each other, I don't get the feeling they're a family anymore and the overall tone is so off that it's heavily impacting this final season. I really have no idea how they'll do the finale and the film because there really isn't much content left.
Overall a much better episode, hopefully the finale is a good one but I'm not holding my breath.
Peaky Blinders: Sapphire (2022)
Slightly better but still not quite there
There's a lot to unpack with this episode. That first scene with Ruby's Funeral was very well done, you could feel the emotion being emitted through the screen. You could see a glimpse of the old Tommy as he was walking away from the burning carriage as Lizzie begs for him to come back. We got to see Curly and Uncle Charlie again which was a delight, but we still haven't seen Finn aside from his small scene at Aunt Polly's funeral. The fact that they haven't even provided an explanation for his absence is so strange and stupid. It was shocking seeing Tommy murder the woman and three others that placed the curse on his family, but also slightly cool to see him killing again.
Arthur yet again is just off his head on booze and drugs, I can't express just how much I hate this version of Arthur, I get they're trying to add more development to his character but it's not right, we're hardly seeing Arthur at all now and when we do he's just a shell of his former self, such a baffling choice of writing, I absolutely hate it.
The sit down Tommy had with Uncle Jack, Mosley, Captain Swing and Diana was interesting, Diana is pure evil and that story of her watching those Jews was horrible, very good acting on the actress's behalf. Tommy is still working undercover for Churchill but I still have no idea what Tommy's endgame is, will they rewrite history like Once Upon A Time In Hollywood?
A very bizarre moment was the reveal that Mosley is sleeping with Gina, watching Tommy barge in after Mosley leaves Gina's place was great as Tommy is now pulling the strings there. Although I'm unsure if this will have any impact on Michael's relationship with Gina.
The biggest takeaway from this episode was its ending as Tommy is told that he has inoperable Tuberculoma, I'd had a feeling that Tommy was sick way back in season five but hearing it being confirmed is gut punching. It's not a death sentence but there's still a good chance he'll die from it and like the doctor told him, he's probably got a year until he'll be dependent on others as he starts to lose control of his mind. It's not looking great for Tommy at all.
Overall it was still quite a slow episode but better than the first three in my opinion. It still doesn't feel like Peaky Blinders as everyone and everything is still so cut up and separated. There are still so many loose ends to tie up aside from Mosley, Uncle Jack, Gina, Michael, Captain Swing, Arthur, Ada, Lizzie and Tommy himself. There are still more things that need to be resolved from previous seasons like Mcavern and the Billy Boys. I really don't think all of these problems can be resolved in just two episodes but I hope they prove us wrong. Looking forward to next Sunday.
Peaky Blinders: Gold (2022)
For a final season, they're taking their sweet time
This episode was somehow much slower than the last. I feel like the show is losing its identity, the peaky blinders aren't really a gang anymore, nobody is taking a beating or getting killed. Seeing how Tommy had changed in the first episode was quite intriguing and interesting but it's become a bit of a bore now and I'm not too keen on it.
It was great to see Esme again, I'd been wondering if we'd ever see her again after season four and the last episode had answered my question. The storyline with the gypsy curses in quite cool and creepy but I don't know if it's the right direction for Tommy, especially in the final season. Stephen Graham finally showed up and his scene was strange, but actually really helpful for Arthur, maybe that little pep talk is what he needs to really get back on track.
There was a lot of emphasis on Ada this episode which was nice to see but her storyline is a bit up in the air too, she's definitely filling the hole that was left by Aunt Polly but I still feel like this season is suffering massively by her absence. By far the most shocking takeaway from this episode was Ruby's death, I really thought Tommy would find a way to save her and she'd pull through. I'm excited to see how Tommy will be in these next episodes following this, hopefully we'll get the Tommy we know and love back.
Overall this was once again another slow episode, I'm really hoping these last three episodes will be the save and grace for this season because it desperately needs it. Looking forward to next Sunday.
Peaky Blinders: Black Shirt (2022)
It's not looking good for Tommy
A slower episode than the last one in my opinion, but still enjoyable nonetheless. Things aren't looking very bright for Tommy as he suffered two seizures in just one episode, and Ruby is extremely ill. Both of their fates are up in the air right now and I'm so unsure whether they'll live or not.
Seeing Alfie again was great, He's gone a bit soft now and it was entertaining watching Tommy try and bring the Alfie we know and love out again. Arthur is once again too high off of his head to do anything but there is hope now as Tommy has revealed that Linda is possibly open to giving Arthur another chance. Hopefully we'll see Arthur back to normal in the next couple of episodes. Tommy finally met with Gina's uncle, I'm unsure as to what Captain Swig's motives are and it was fun to see the condescending Oswald Mosley again.
The last few minutes were incredibly tense with Tommy rushing to the house to check on Ruby, I was glad to hear that Tommy is going to Esme for help, it'll be interesting to see her again.
Overall a decent episode, can't wait for next Sunday.
Peaky Blinders: Black Day (2022)
The Blinders Are Back!
After nearly two and a half years, the Peaky Blinders are finally back on the small screen. This episode really kicks off the tension between Tommy and Michael with Tommy getting Michael arrested and taunting him in prison.
This episode also revealed how they dealt with the tragic passing of Helen McCrory by tying in Polly's death with the people behind the shocking betrayal in the season five finale. Topped off with the funeral and a dedication to her memory in the credits, I think this was the best way to deal with it.
Furthermore Tommy had stopped drinking which has given him a surprisingly cool head under pressure, Arthur is still a drunken mess and Ada is really living up to Aunt Polly's legacy. I can't wait to see where this final season goes next.
Hawkeye: So This Is Christmas? (2021)
It just gets worse and worse
I really don't know what's happened to marvel since Avengers Infinity War, but the quality of everything since then has been god awful. They really wasted Kingpin in this episode, instead of being that vicious, hot headed antagonist that we got to see in daredevil, we got a joke of a villain that gets taken out in about 5 minutes. That ambiguous end to him was so stupid and unnecessary. Disney and Marvel should just cancel every upcoming superhero tv show at this point because every single one of them has been atrocious.
Mayans M.C.: Dark, Deep-Laid Plans (2021)
8.4?? This Deserves A 9.0
This Episode Was Filled To The Brim With Brilliance, The Tension When The Mayans Were Trying To Smuggle The Drugs Over The Wall Was Filmed And Timed Perfectly, Miguel Going To See Felipe Was Really Unexpected And Very Touching Especially When Felipe Hugged Him For A While.
Sadly Not Everything Went According To Plan As The Other Kings Found Out About EZ's Plan, Coco Stole A Brick Of Heroin (which is sure to have consequences) And There Was An Assassination Attempt On EZ Which Was Hands Down The Greatest Moment From This Episode, I Was On The Edge Of My Seat The Entire Time. I Also Loved The Fact That The Final Scene Of This Episode Was Entirely One Shot, It Just Shows How Talented The Crew For This Show Are.
Bosch: Triple Play (2021)
Really Picking Up The Pace Now
This episode features some of the most shocking scenes from the final season so far, it's revealed that Vincent and his mistress were murdered by this mysterious man in a mask, this mysterious man also steals the laptop and hard drive given by Maddie to Vincent. By far the most shocking moment from this episode was seeing the masked man shoot Honey Chandler and is later revealed that he stole her hard drive too.
This episode also sees the return of Detective Robertson and his partner, it's always good seeing Robertson again as he was notably absent last season. Jerry is still on the decline as he was late to work once again and can't seem to maintain a love life with Robertson's partner. The tension when Maddie entered Honey Chandler's house despite Bosch's orders not to was fantastic and very well acted.
Overall this was a very good episode with some great moments, I can't wait to see the remaining episodes.
The Falcon and the Winter Soldier: One World, One People (2021)
Disappointing ending to a disappointing show
This whole show was extremely disappointing, and I wasn't even very excited to watch it, the writers did such a poor job with this show, it's shocking how they thought this was good enough to be released.
Furthermore this episode was extremely rushed, you're instantly shoved into some very mediocre action, John Walker was absolutely dreadful in this episode. Marvel decided to go with the cliche "bad guy does something good at the end" plot that was just unnecessary. The reveal of Sharon Carter being the villain was incredibly underwhelming, Karli's death was bland and didn't get a reaction out of most people. The credits scene just felt pointless.
Overall this show was a chore to watch and the recent announcement of a Captain America 4 with the same show runner as The Falcon And The Winter Soldier doesn't get me excited at all. Just give us Daredevil back please.
Hitman III (2021)
A fitting end to the world of assassination trilogy
After 5 years, the end is finally here. Hitman 3 has some of the most entertaining levels throughout the entire franchise, however it's not the levels that carry this game, it's the story. The game picks up right after the events of Hitman 2 and follows Agent 47, Lucas Grey and Diana Burnwood as they try to take down providence once and for all. Right from the very first level you can tell that ioi wanted to show off everything they could do with fantastic graphics, fun assassination opportunities and great level design.
Right after you finish the Dubai level you think that they will take down providence quite easily as both 47 and Lucas are very skilled operatives, however that all changes at the end of the second level with the death of Lucas Grey. This moment caught me off guard as Lucas was a very important character both in the story and 47's life, the scene was very well acted and really shocked the player. This is all topped off with the scenario that Diana Burnwood will join The Constant and become the next head of Providence.
Arthur Edwards (The Constant) really shows you why he's the best villain in the Hitman franchise as he's able to get under 47's skin and manipulate every situation he's in. Diana is arguably the most important character in this game as it focuses a lot on her relationship with 47 and it's teased multiple times that she'll kill 47, luckily it doesn't come to that and she was playing the constant the entire time which sets up a very satisfying end to this trilogy where 47 and Diana continue to work together.
My negatives with this game come with The Constant because he isn't shown enough and I thought that his end was quite abrupt whilst 47 and Diana's story was very satisfying, I really wish they'd used him more. My other negative with the game comes with the opportunities as there are significantly less of them when compared to Hitman (2016) and Hitman 2 (2018), it's just baffling why ioi decided to do this instead of going all the way.
Overall Hitman 3 is a very good game that's made with lots of love from its developers and packs a lot of emotion if you're a long time fan of the series.
Attaway General: New Blood (2021)
Breathtaking
This episode was absolutely magnificent, it's up there with episodes like "Face Off" and "Ozymandias" from Breaking Bad. The writing is flawless and the characters are so likeable, I'm gutted that that one D'amelio girl isn't coming back but it's okay. In fact I would say this show is better than Breaking Bad, the writing team should be proud.
Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War (2020)
Rushed
I love the call of duty franchise and I was really exited to hear that Treyarch's next game would be set during the Cold War, however I am very happy and very disappointed with this game.
Positives:
The campaign is absolutely fantastic and that fact that it has multiple endings like black ops 2 makes it even better. All the future content will be free which is great and all of the guns feel good. Zombies is really fun in this game and is arguably the best mode.
Negatives:
There are only 8 maps at launch and none of them stand out, they're just really bland, the skill based match making completely ruins the multiplayer experience. The developers just focus on the battle royale game mode now instead of multiplayer which is a huge slap in the face to older players. Graphics are a step down from the previous title. This game feels too much like Modern Warfare 2019 but with a few extra features that the game needed.
Overall this game has a lot of potential to be great but it feels very rushed at the moment, hopefully the dlc maps will be great.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (2019)
Worst Multiplayer Ever
Positives:
Great Campaign
Great Graphics
Negatives:
Awful Multiplayer
Bad Maps
Loud Footsteps Promote Camping
Skill Based Matchmaking
Mediocre Battle Royale
Terrible Spec Ops Mode
I was so exited for this game, it had so much potential and the trailers made it look great. But it was all a lie. Infinity Ward don't know how to make fun games anymore.
Mayans M.C.: Hunahpu (2019)
Wow
This was one of the best episodes to one of the greatest tv show seasons I've ever watched. This show does so much right with its story telling and characters, you really care about all of the members in this club and they all feel unique in their own way. This episode packs a lot of emotion and shocking scenes that keep you on the edge of your seat, and that cliffhanger kept me and everyone else wanting more. I'm really exited to see where this show goes next.
The Last of Us: Part II (2020)
Failnomenal
What was the point of this game? They tried way too hard to make you feel empathy for the main villain right after she killed the main character!!!!!! This whole game was a giant waste of time that could have been summed up in about 3 hours but no, instead this game drags on and on for about 30+ hours instead
Pros:
Amazing graphics
Amazing character animations
Great voice acting
Cons:
Extremely weak story
Repetitive gameplay
Uninteresting characters
Too long
Wasted opportunity
Better Call Saul: Magic Man (2020)
Bob Odenkirk Is A Magician When It Comes To Playing Saul Goodman
This episode is so well shot, it has an amazing montage of Saul conducting his business and passing out flyers and legal advice. This episode also has a great cameo from the late Robert Forster who sadly passed. The heat is turned up on Nacho as he feels more and more uncomfortable with Lalo. This is the show that keeps on delivering.