moon_creature Reviews

Clueless (1995)

Not a role model for teens

[4/10 · 22 May 2023]

I watched too much of the movie. I was really hoping that, in the end, Cher would not hook up with her college-aged* step brother. Like some other reviewers said, this was just truly cringeworthy. Yuck. I don't know what else to say. It's a lot of silly teenage fluff, helping me pass the time with something more lighthearted. However, the crappy ending led me to review this title. *From the internet: "California is one of 11 states where the age of consent is 18 years old. It is illegal for individuals aged 18 years or older to engage in sexual behavior with anyone under 18 years of age. Engaging in sexual intercourse or any other sexual behavior with someone who is under the age of consent can lead to serious criminal consequences."

Dickensian (2015–2016)

There easily could have been a season 2

[9/10 · 17 May 2023]

I just happened to discover Dickensian last week, and really binged through this series. It was so well done, so well crafted. Characters coming to life in a different dimension, a back story was created for Dickens' works. I liked this creative compilation and coalescing of stories and characters. Some characters I truly had visceral antipathy toward - which made me realize how top notch the acting was. I was so disheartened to learn of the reasons why Dickensian stopped at 1 season. It had something to do with scheduling & other programing overlaps in the UK - which resulted in lower viewership in later episodes. I hope someone changes their minds, and brings a season 2.

Waschen, Schneiden, Leben! - Mein neues Ich (2021– )

Laid back version of "Queer Eye"

[7/10 · 21 March 2023]

This is a reality show where people come to a hair salon in Cologne, Germany to get a makeover. Most of the people coming in have an interesting or kind of dramatic life story. Some want a "new style" for a special event, some are going through certain life changes. The guests get their hair done, make up, and a new outfit. I especially enjoy Meike who does the wardrobe as her way of talking gives a real ASMRy vibe. She's usually on only for a few seconds though. This show is only in German and I'm not aware of any place to watch it with subtitles. Some people might find it boring, but I like it because it helps me relax. Also the hairdressers, makeup artists, and wardrobe people are all really likeable and have such a good vibe. It's very sweet and cheerful. You're not going to get the high drama like with Queer Eye, but like I said, I like it because it's so relaxing. My only criticism after watching a handful of episodes is that it's not very ethnically diverse. People of color do live in Germany, so I feel like there could be broader representation with that on the show. Like portraying different skin tones (make up, hair dye), different hair textures, and vastly different life stories. A few of the hairdressers seem to be of Middle Eastern heritage at least. It's a sweet show to vegg out to.

The Suspicions of Mr Whicher (2011–2014)

Wish there were more episodes

[7/10 · 18 March 2023]

I really liked this short series, and as mentioned - if there were more episodes I'd watch them. I like the slower paced atmospheric style. My only complaint is that some of the scenes were so dark indoors I couldn't really see what was in the room. Well, maybe representative of an era where people only saw by candlelight or lantern. I wasn't a huge fan of the 4th installment, which had less to do with the acting & atmosphere, and more with the revealed subplot at the end. This was a bit like a mellower version of Ripper Street, had a similar vibe. (Not sure what else to add review requires at least 500 characters.)

Australian Survivor: Civilised Scrambling (2017) Season 2, Episode 25

disappointing/spoilers

[6/10 · 22 December 2022]

I ended up ff-ing through the entire next episode after Michelle lost - because I knew who the jury would vote for. I've watched almost all of the US Survivor shows, at least 1-2xs. Have now watched 2 of Australian. Sadly, Tara appears to be the worst player I can remember getting past the merge. She had no game play/plan. Her final "strategy" for a big move was just silly. Of course Jericho was the clear winner - jury-wise & physically-competitive wise. I just needed to vent. Not even worth watching after Michelle leaves. Tara ruined it, honestly. It was fun to watch up until Tara's vote.....

The Bookshop (2017)

slow

[5/10 · 25 March 2022]

Very slow moving, but with quality filming & atmospheric. I watched it streaming and had to take breaks to get through it. I'm not really certain who the target audience is for this one. I'm open to slow burn, but felt this was asking a lot from viewers.

Black Sails (2014–2017)

Eight and one half stars

[8/10 · 22 December 2021]

1st season took time to get through, but after that I was completely hooked. Used Didthedogdie website to determine what scene to skip (4th season, ep 3 I think). Points taken off for unbelievable make up, not period appropriate, the women were too glamorous...you can see their makeup detail e.g. Eye-shadow. That element just took from suspension of disbelief for me. Also, everyone had good teeth! Anyway, aside from that I got really drawn in. The fighting was a bit too repetitive for me, so I ff through those scenes. Not a show for kids or young teens IMO.

Welcome (I) (2009)

Excellent film

[9/10 · 17 September 2021]

This film was excellent in so many ways. Despite that, utterly heartbreaking.

The World to Come (2020)

Colonial hipsters in moody period piece

[5/10 · 7 September 2021]

The concept was fine, scenery/cinematography very good. I despised the soundtrack, just too much droning...and a high pitched mess during one segment. I actually fast forwarded it at that point. Characters not entirely believable as they were all very "pretty", clean and well coifed. Hands were not farmers' hands, and eyebrows not appropriate for the time. Sorry, but when creating a period piece these things have to be believable. This film was suggested to me, so I gave it a try. Don't watch this if you feel depressed. It's depressing - except for the scenery, which is bucolic.

Damnation (2017–2018)

1 Season

[6/10 · 15 August 2021]

Definitely kept my interest. High level of violence. Wonder how much was gratuitous? Unfortunately only 1 season, so you're left to write, create, produce, etc. Your own ending. If the subject matter appeals to anyone reading this - Matewan is a really good film.

Alone (2015– )

Won't continue

[12 July 2021]

I've watched about 3 or 4 episodes of season 7 ? On Netflix, and it was really engrossing for me. But, I realized that I don't want to see someone hunting a bear with a bow - so I'm going to stop here. I don't mind the fishing and to some extent the small animal snares. I suspect some of these people belong to Safari Club International. (SCI is all about "bagging" big game, and even endangered species.) I like the survival aspect, but for now I'm not going to continue. Also, wolverines are near or already endangered, so I really do not want to see a wolverine killed just for a tv show! Humans are infringing enough on the entire planet.

The Split: Episode #1.5 (2018) Season 1, Episode 5

Episode 5

[29 April 2021]

I haven't seen the entire series yet, and missed the 1st episode. So, the thing is is that Hannah is having an affair the whole time with Christie. It's not a physical affair, it's an emotional affair. And, while I'm not an expert in this area - from what I've read is that emotional affairs are much more damaging than a short physical affair. No one wants to be betrayed physically or emotionally. Hannah is letting her emotional affair continue by working with, and continuously confiding in Christie. It's just as inappropriate as physical cheating. Hannah should talk with a female therapist. I think everyone in this series needs therapy! :-D.

The Big Family Cooking Showdown (2017–2018)

Cooking showdown during pandemic lockdown

[8/10 · 4 January 2021]

I loved watching this UK series here in the States. And, like some of the negative reviews for the 2nd season...well...I understand some of the criticisms. However, I'm so glad that there were 2 seasons! Watching people interact and create and being together as (partial) families just really helped me get through my own extreme isolation many nights. I wish there were more seasons of this show. Cooking shows aren't my typical genre, but I've started to fall in love with them over the past couple of years...and now especially during this very stressful time. I'm explaining all of this, because, at the end of the day...there are worse things than a "so so" 2nd season. Yes, I preferred season 1. But, I very gladly kept going thru season 2. Keep an open mind, stay safe, and have fun watching families stress out over their gravies and sides, etc.!

The Giants (2011)

Entertaining, unrealistic

[5/10 · 17 October 2020]

A coming of age story which was entertaining, and kept my attention. But, not enough suspension of disbelief for me. Otherwise I would have given it a higher rating.

Janet King: The Invisible Wound (2016) Season 2, Episode 1

PTSD as recurring theme

[11 February 2020]

I just want to say that this season is heavily about flashbacks and PTSD. It's nearly giving me PTSD triggers watching this season. They repeatedly replay the traumatized characters' flashbacks. While this is probably meant to help raise awareness about PTSD, I think it could be potentially triggering for those with it already.

Neben der Spur: Adrenalin (2014) Season 1, Episode 1

Moderately paced "Krimi"

[6/10 · 1 February 2020]

This was the first in this series I've watched. Being bilingual gives me the opportunity to watch German language tv series and films when they don't make it to English language streaming services. I sometimes struggle with German crime dramas...mainly because I feel spoiled by the more gritty and atmospheric Scandi Noir, and British whodunnits/procedurals. On the whole, this had some very good elements, and the pace was steady. Unfortunately it ended with a lame punchline. But, I think many police/detective procedurals try to edge some wit in at the closing scene (from all countries). Anyway, I liked this well enough to watch another in the series.

Bayo (1985)

Sweet Film

[8/10 · 5 January 2020]

This was a sweet film, calm, and endearing. I just watched it, and for anyone who may want to see it, Canadian broadcast company Encore + Media has uploaded to their channel on youtube. I would recommend it if you want to just let your mind settle down, and for your heart be touched.

Key Lime Pie (2007)

A bit twisted and atmospheric

[6/10 · 25 December 2019]

Really creative animated short. I think it's available to watch on that y tube thingy.

The Great British Baking Show (2010– )

Creative, Fun, Imanginitive, and Gluttonous

[6/10 · 25 December 2019]

I liked watching this series via Ntflx. I'm actually not a baker, and not that interested in baking! But, what I liked were the different personalties of the bakers and some of the amazing creative designs. It was also touching to see some of the more personal stories of some of the bakers. I found the dramatic music in different places very funny...like..."now it's getting serious!". It's also touching to see the bakers cry at times. I imagine it is more to release stress than anything else. I'm not entirely sure what happens to the baked items later on. Are they thrown away? Donated to a soup kitchen? Well, I chose to watch this because it is low key, and something I would normally never think of watching!

Thriller: Not Guilty! (1974) Season 3, Episode 6

The first "Thriller" episode I've seen

[6/10 · 20 September 2019]

I'm pretty sure I've never seen this series before...and I'm glad I came across it today. I liked the low key aspect ("vibe") of the show. It's one of those shows where it almost feels more like a stage performance than film (not entirely, but it has that quality). If you're looking for something "lower octane" compared to today's high adrenaline viewing, this could fit the bill. If you're in the mood for high intensity viewing, I'd probably look elsewhere. I'm probably going to watch more from this "Thriller" series.

Happy Hollidays (2009– )

I like it

[7/10 · 10 August 2019]

I've watched Still Game a couple of times through (at least), and at some point I discovered Happy Hollidays. It's set in a recreational trailer park in Scotland where there are ongoing corny adventures and silly/outrageous schemes. Maybe not for everyone, but I've enjoyed it. It's only 1 season, wish it had gone on for more seasons.

Wind River (2017)

Well made, but also too graphic

[5/10 · 15 July 2019]

This was generally well made. Graphic rape scene was unnecessary. Luckily I watched on Netflix so I could fast forward past that. Parts of it seemed really unrealistic to me, but that was just a gut feeling more than actually knowing for sure. This film also made me want to donate to predator protection programs in the US. There are other ways to work with predators vis-a-vis ranching, IMO. No need to vilify predators more than they already are. In other words, no need to brain wash impressionable viewers that the only way to deal with predators is to kill them. I was happy to see Graham Green - one of my favorite actors.

Goldstone (2016)

I liked it

[6/10 · 11 July 2019]

I liked this film...some people may have found it boring. I would call it atmospheric. The mood might be similar in some ways to "Dark Valley" ("Das finstere Tal") ... that kind of pacing and stretching out the suspense. 6 1/2 stars.

Mord mit Aussicht (2008–2024)

Cozy Mystery Series

[7/10 · 18 April 2019]

I came across this gem of a tv series a number of years ago on "ARD Mediathek". Because I'm bilingual I've been able to watch things in German on places like "Das Erste" which produces this. The setting is a rural town called "Hengasch". It's a play on words...in German it almost sounds like "Hänge-arsch" which is a real concept. (Flabby/saggy bottom, basically). It's deliberate because the main character, Sophie, says "Hengasch" sometimes in a way where it really sounds like 'Hängearsch". The characters are all caricatures, but once in a while there are more serious moments as well. It can be a bit corny, but I think that's its charm in a way. It's pretty light viewing as far as murder mysteries go... Might be interesting to see if an English-language based streaming service might pick it up some day. Compared with Brit series, I'd say it's something like a cross between a little more cynical Vicar of Dibley and a more rural Midsomer Murders. Each episode is under 1 hour.

Mar de plástico: La fosa (2015) Season 1, Episode 9

Taking a break to gripe about this series

[3/10 · 2 April 2018]

This series tries hard, and in some ways it succeeds, but most of the time I find myself griping at the flawed procedures and the idiocy of the characters (or, the writers). I'm not quite done watching, and it's starting to feel like pulling teeth. Here are my gripes about what I've been watching so far: 1. Men, please do not grab women who are smaller than you by the arm and bully them. 2. People: you do not need to lean over and act all tough in someone's face (e.g. Pilar) unless you are really ready to hit them. This happens too much. 3. Cops, when finding someone "down" have to start CPR (at least in the US), or call an ambulance. Like when the guy in the cell was down - the right thing to do is to start CPR (and wait for paramedics). 4. Lola's family should be really happy that she has a good job. I think Spain has been known for high unemployment rates. And, it's idiotic that her own mother won't even visit her. 5. Fara, really? Oh geeze where to even start. Fara is pretty enough to get out of doing laundry and stacking produce to go to Madrid and get a full-on modeling job. 6. Are the laws in Spain different than in the US? Can a person dump gasoline on someone and threaten them with a lighter, assault and battery and get no jail time? Huh. 7. Marta: Marta get a dog. Get an alarm system. Invite a friend to stay with you for a while. 8. Hector and his flashbacks, sigh, too much of that. The "tortured soul" filmmakers want us to love. Cliche. Well, I just needed to get these things off of my chest. LOL I like the landscape and scenery. I'd like to go to Spain some day and go where it's arid. While this series had potential, there are just too many flaws. Oh, and doesn't Spain have the equivalent of an FBI? Like, if the police commit a crime, can their immediate co-workers interview them? If I could rename this series I'd call it "The Sea of Conflicts of Interest".