calamari2 Reviews

Nirvana in Fire (2015–2018)

Refined drama at its best

[10/10 · 20 May 2024]

I really have to give this exquisite drama 10 stars, it's been a while since I had the pleasure of enjoying a quality production of this calibre which actually respects and speaks to the viewer's intelligence rather than just washing over you with mindless special effects and noise rather than substance as so much of today's productions do.

So refreshing to see such a refined, engaging and clever drama, unfolding so elegantly in episode after episode. Wonderfully depicted, excellent cast, superb music score. From now on I am keeping a lookout for anything written by the author of this amazing saga, Hai Yan (what a mind this writer has, unbelievable), as well as the directors, who did a beautiful job.

Somebody mentioned in a review that this story is reminiscent of the Count of Monte Cristo and Game of Thrones, it is something like that, though developments here are more quiet and slow paced. For mature audiences who appreciate political intrigue and clever plots, this is a must.

The Expanse (2015–2022)

An elegant epic space opera

[9/10 · 7 August 2021]

A beautifully conceived and conveyed story, elegant in its delivery and visually striking in every frame. At last a mature sci-fi drama at the level of the exceptional Battlestar Galactica series (2004-2009). The cast all do an excellent job, an extra credit, however, must go to the magnetic Cara Gee who is simply astounding as Camina Drummer!

The Orville (2017–2022)

A great and well-rounded show!

[9/10 · 6 November 2020]

Somebody who reviewed one of the new and frankly bizarre "Star Trek" series that are out there said that they should just hand the entire Star Trek franchise over to Seth MacFarlane as he was most suited and likely to actually do a good job of keeping the essence of Star Trek and its legacy. I could not agree more. What the new Star Trek series fail miserably at achieving MacFarlane does so effortlessly. In just one or two episodes of the Orville we already like and understand who the characters are. We care for them. In the new Star Trek series they cry all the time either when leaving each other or when being reunited, obviously they are incredibly attached to each other, however, the viewer has not partaken in the actual bonding that seems to have occurred between the characters. Must have been happening behind the scenes. Again, MacFarlane makes the interaction between the crew members very successful. For example, by understanding the importance of downtime and using an inviting dining or pub area for people to hang out. Instead of filling our screens with doomsday scenarios the Orville brings us hope for the future and the message that we can always aspire to better as human beings. At any time, but especially now, I feel the world could do with more positive messages like this. However, even though the Orville reminds us of the "real" Star Trek, it has its own personality and manages to effectively balance humour, the weird, with the serious, with the current topics of our modern world. We need the Orville and I sincerely hope we get several more seasons of this well-made, well-rounded, quality show! Also a plus for the good music and a real intro theme!

Ghadi (2013)

A charming feel-good gem

[10/10 · 6 November 2020]

This is a little masterpiece, full of charm and wit. It made me laugh - several times - and cry. I find myself thinking about this movie the day after seeing it, it stays with you, like a rare gem in a vast sea of rubbish movies that are out there. One of the best movies I have seen in a while.

A Series of Unfortunate Events (2017–2019)

An all around excellent production

[9/10 · 1 December 2018]

A thoroughly enjoyable high quality production with a great cast.