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Reviews
God Save Texas: La Frontera (2024)
Extremely moving and personal documentary
Very moved by this episode demonstrating the personal stakes of America's broken immigration policy. Covering the border between El Paso and Ciudad Juarez, the episode demonstrates the long complex history of immigration in this period particularly discussing aspects such as the wartime Bracero Program and use of chemicals on Mexicans arriving into the US. A truly moving and personal episode which demonstrates the extremely personal stakes of immigration policy, and the inhumanity of it too with the separation of families. I wish that more people would know more about this history and not disregard it because of partisan reasons, or the fear that is trying to be stoked.
Gilmore Girls: Santa's Secret Stuff (2007)
Fairly cute Christmas show
Although season 7 is quite weak overall, I actually enjoyed this episode even though there were some sad moments to it. It seems in many ways to be the turning point for Lorelai in realising she still loves Luke
WandaVision (2021)
A poignant meditation on grief
I think what was truly phenomenal about this show is not only the way in which it details the history of American television for the past 70 years and reflects on the role of women in those shows, but indeed the resonant portrayal of Wanda's profound grief. I feel in many ways this show could not have come out at a more poignant time, around a year into the pandemic where many of us have experienced grief. Moreover, I'm sure the idea of creating our own fantasy world to stem that grief and pain would sadly appeal to many of us at this desperate time. Watching this show every Friday has been a true treat, a form of escapism from everyday reality - much like Wanda is escaping reality herself. The show therefore in many respects is reflecting life back at us in a strange way, and I think we can all appreciate the multi-layered magnificence that is this show. The meditation on grief and loss was so poignant, and Elizabeth Olsen should seriously be considered for an Emmy nomination for her work in this show, as well as Paul and Kathryn.
WandaVision: The Series Finale (2021)
A great wrap-up
As others have noted, I think this episode excellently summed up the series. The ending was so emotional - I've watched the episode twice now and cried both times at the end. The screenwriters of this show crafted some beautifully written scenes between Wanda and Vision, such as the flashback in the Avengers compound, but this ending scene where they are saying goodbye is just amazing. While I really wanted a Dr. Strange cameo, I feel that the second post-credits scene does "tee-up" Wanda's journey for that film (especially with the Strange theme music playing in the background when we see her astral projection!) Very excited about Multiverse of Madness now, but sad about having to wait a whole year for it to come out!
Euphoria: Trouble Don't Last Always (2020)
Phenomenal Performances
Honestly this was just a masterclass in acting and dialogue. Colman and Zendaya were phenomenal in their performances - I very much hope Colman gets an Emmy for this work. It was profoundly moving and I really appreciated the content of their conversation. I think choosing to write and frame the episode in this way was incredibly effective and powerful. I'm looking forward to the next special episode and season two later in 2021!
Little Women (1994)
STILL the BEST version
I have read the book and watched this version 8+ times, I love it so dearly, it is one of my favourite films of all time. I just watched Greta Gerwig's 2019 version and appreciated a lot of the performances and certain elements of it, yet it simply cannot hold a candle to this 1994 version. This one just has far more heart, warmth and loveliness to it - it always leaves me feeling cosy and warm inside and I always cry when Beth dies (Claire Danes is so fantastic in that scene). I just generally prefer this version in many ways: the linear storytelling, the two different Amys (which makes way more sense than these other adaptions which have one Amy), the aesthetic, the music, the performances. If you want to see a definitive adaptation of Little Women, this is it.
Little Women (2019)
Brilliantly acted but confusing and 1994 version still superior
I have read Little Women and watched the 1994 Winona Ryder version multiple times. The 1994 version is one of my favourite movies of all time so going into this I knew that it was going to be hard to top that one but from all the positive reviews I did go in with an open mind, especially since I read that it was supposed to be a feminist retelling.
First of all, I think it was brilliantly acted, Saoirse Ronan is incredible and deserves an Oscar for her performance. She literally carried the movie. Florence Pugh was also very strong as Amy - but more so as older Amy, as she was quite unbelievable as a 12 year old Amy with her deep voice. However, I do think she was excellent in the role when she is older Amy and does have some of the best lines - she overall did bring out a more meaningful side of the character that had not been portrayed before, and one which is more in tandem to the Amy in Alcott's novel. Laura Dern was also fantastic, as ever, I think her portrayal of Marmee as a more complicated character who is not all goodness (as Susan Sarandon's Marmee is in the 1994 version) was much more true to the novel. Oscar winners Meryl Streep and Chris Cooper were also, expectedly, amazing and Chris Cooper's Mr Laurence was a much more substantial character in this version than the 1994 one. However, as much as I love Emma Watson, I found her performance to be sub-par and I honestly doubt her abilities as an actress, as lovely as she is. Eliza Scanlen's Beth also cannot hold a candle to Claire Danes' performance in the 1994 version.
Secondly, the whole non-linear form of the movie is really quite dislocating, even to someone who knows the book and previous film inside out, it could be quite confusing at times. At times the only way you know what time setting we are at is by Jo's haircut. I honestly think that I would have preferred the movie if it had been told linearly. I get why she did it this way - to emphasise the emotionality of certain moments - but at times it did feel like we were watching a bunch of flashbacks/snapshots of the story, which in a sense diminished the heart of the story itself. The fact that Florence Pugh barely looked any different as Amy or even Timothee Chalamet as Laurie did not help much either.
In general, I really LOVE the ending of this movie and the message about ownership of your own work, it is very empowering and I feel Greta Gerwig did a good job emphasising this at the end. I also like how there was the inclusion of certain scenes and elements from the book that are not in the 1994 version such as Jo taking Beth to the beach and also Jo regretting her refusal to marry Laurie. However, I still must say that the 1994 version will remain forever my favourite adaptation of the book - it has the most heart, beautiful performances and I do in earnest prefer the linear form of storytelling.
BBC Proms: Oklahoma! (2017)
Went to see this live
Was amazing to see this live and have seen it again since taped. What amazing singing and dancing.
Unbelievable (2019)
Remarkable storytelling
I was really unsure if I was going to be able to get through the show because of the violence of the first episode but I am so glad I stuck with it. What an incredible piece of work, just absolutely phenomenal. The performances by the three lead actresses are award-worthy, especially Kaitlyn Dever. I hope that the show is awarded in the upcoming year when it is eligible. This was such a masterful piece of storytelling and I know I will probably watch it again some time. Really cannot recommend enough for all who feel they can handle watching it. Well done to everyone involved.
Just Mercy (2019)
Extremely moving, powerful.
An important film for our times about racial injustice and the cruelty that is the US criminal justice system. Very moving and powerful. Wonderful performances from the two main leads - Jordan and Foxx, with strong supporting performances from Brie Larson and Rafe Spall. Recommend to anyone who wants to become a lawyer or is just interested in US politics and history.
Avengers: Endgame (2019)
Amazing
Waited a year for this and it was so worth it. Lived up to expectations but actually was far better than I could have imagined. Absolutely amazing. I cried so much. A beautiful ending to this epic feat of storytelling. Hilarious, dramatic, awe-inspiring and just unbelievable. Go see this movie!!!
A Star Is Born (2018)
Beautifully tragic
I enjoyed this movie, but it is a tragic love story in the end. I felt it was well acted and directed. I think Sam Elliott was actually brilliant as supporting actor. Unfortunately I don't think I could watch this movie again as it just made me so sad. I can't even listen to Shallow again without feeling sad knowing what happens at the end of the movie.
Doctor Strange (2016)
Should have won for visual effects Oscar
Doctor Strange is definitely one of the best Marvel films to date. Truly love this film and the spiritual elements to it. It has a much deeper meaning than some other Marvel movies. The visual effects are just incredible and I cannot understand why it didn't win the Oscar in 2017!
Black Panther (2018)
Wow I cannot believe some of these reviews
Black Panther is an amazing film. Period. I don't know why there are so many low reviews on this site it is ridiculous. This movie has cultural significance and a great message. It celebrates African culture and explores the difficult histories of slavery and colonialism - deeper issues than you would find it many other Marvel films although that being said I love Marvel and appreciate escapism and adventure. Please do not come on this site to write reviews if you are being racially prejudiced - there's no need for this kind of behaviour in 2019. Wakanda Forever!!!
BlacKkKlansman (2018)
One of the best movies of 2018 and ever
Spike Lee wins again with this film. One of the best movies I have ever seen. A powerful story with strong social commentary and political undertones. A masterful piece of art from the cinematography to the screenplay to the score. In my opinion should have won best picture.
Captain Marvel (2019)
Brilliant, please don't listen to the haters.
Thoroughly enjoyed this film! Honestly one of the best Marvel movies to date and a fantastic origin story overall! Stellar performances and just such a great message to young girls for female empowerment! Meant so much to me to see this film as a woman even though I have thoroughly enjoyed all male Marvel superhero movies more than most males probably!! I love Marvel and this is another success in the bank!
The Kominsky Method (2018)
Love this show
Micheal Douglas and Alan Arkin are amazing in their show it is truly a wonderful and refreshing comedy. Michael Douglas definitely deserved his golden globe for the show Alan Arkin should have won too . I can' wait for season two I hope it will be as good as season one!
The Good Place (2016)
The Best Comedy on TV currently
We love this show! The whole outlook of the show is so refreshing! I love how philosophy is interwoven into the show, it's truly great. I love all the characters so much and the show has been fantastic in regards to character development. I would like to see it win more awards soon!
Brooklyn Nine-Nine (2013)
Doesn't compare to The Good Place
Considering this was created by the same writer, Micheal Schur, who created The Good Place I am confused as The Good Place is charming and funny whereas this is not at all. I just don't get the humour here and as much as I try I just can't like Andy Samberg. I had this show recommended by friends but nope just don't get it. Good Place all the way!
Ant-Man and the Wasp (2018)
A fun sequel!
Honestly don't see why there's so much negativity on some of these reviews, guys! This was a fun film. Sure it's not as magnificent as the preceding Infinity War or doesn't have the same depth as Black Panther or Winter Soldier, but it was wholly entertaining, heartwarming and a good laugh. The antics have been upped in this film from the original Ant Man and to great effect, especially with the cars constantly changing size and the chase scene around San Francisco was fun to watch! It balances great comedy, scientific discussions, adventures into the Quantum realm and a heartwarming family story in one film. They played on many of the strengths of the first film and yet what made the movie stronger is the increased ferocity of Lilly's Hope aka The Wasp character, really great to see another strong female superhero in the MCU! I think what was also great is having a diverse cast in terms of race, gender and age! It's true the villain of the ghost is no huge villain, but an interesting character for sure who you can actually sympathise with due to her affliction, plus it's also interesting to see how S.H.I.E.L.D yet again was revealed to be not a very morally ethical institution at all times due to their connection with Ghost (of course it was infiltrated by Hydra anyway!) The immediate post credit scene is very important to watch if you're a Marvel fan and have seen Infinity War but there's no reason to stay until the final end credits scene since it's just silly and doesn't add to the storyline.
Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)
A Great Origin Story
I don't get why this movie only has a 6.9 rating on here - it's fantastic! Truly, I think this MCU movie is one of the best origin movies of them all and starts off what I believe to be the greatest MCU trilogy so far! This movie has so many connotations besides just being Captain America's origin story, especially with the political undertones and historical background of WW2. Chris Evans is spectacular as always as Captain America, and seeing his transformation from skinny little Steve to hunky Steve is just...wow. Plus, you've got a genuinely menacing villain in Hugo Weaving's Red Skull and the start of the infinity stone (tesseract) story within this film. I also love at the beginning of the movie when they show Ygdrasil, the tree of life from Norse mythology, which nicely ties into the Thor movie which came out not long before this one. The supporting cast is also excellent, with Tommy Lee Jones and Stanley Tucci bringing star power to the film, and then Sebastian Stan is wonderful as always as Bucky (later the Winter Soldier!!!) and Hayley Atwell is also excellent. I think the naysayers need to revisit this movie and see how good it is compared to some of the other MCU films - like why is this rated just above the god awful Hulk movie?? And it's also FAR better than Thor: The Dark World which has a higher rating than this! Come on guys! This movie is GREAT! Captain America will always be the best MCU trilogy.
Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
Best Marvel Movie Yet!
After watching this movie now for a second time, I have to conclude that it is definitely the best Marvel movie yet! It certainly was tricky for the directors and writers to include so many different characters from the MCU in the movie, yet they managed to do so brilliantly, cutting to different character plots at clever points to tell the story. What really makes the movie so superior is that Josh Brolin's Thanos is a deep, complex villain who you can't say is inherently evil because he realises there are finite resources within this universe although his method of genocide is clearly not the right way to go about things! But Thanos is definitely the greatest Marvel villain to date, especially given that unlike many other Marvel villains, we have seen him before in the Guardians movies and post-credits for both previous Avengers films. The performances by everyone in this movie are exceptional, everyone is undoubtedly at the top of their game here - in particular, Chris Hemsworth, Chris Evans and Robert Downey Jr, whose characters have now evolved to such an extent that their desperation and desire for vengeance (especially in Thor's case) is truly apparent in the execution of their roles. Zoe Saldana's Gamora is also wonderful in this movie, I definitely like the character a lot more than before due to her heartfelt speech to Thanos before he trades her for the soul stone: "All my life I dreamed of a day, a moment, when you got what you deserved. And I was always so disappointed. But now, you kill and torture and you call it mercy. The universe has judged you. You asked it for a prize and it told you no. You failed. And do you wanna know why? Because you love nothing. No one." AMAZING WRITING! Not to mention, the special effects, oh my word, they are out of this world! (Literally!) If this isn't nominated for Visual effects come Oscar Time, there will be riots! The whole thing is just spectacular. It is certainly heartbreaking at the end to see all these characters being turned to dust, especially ones who are the more recent Avengers, but it certainly raises the stakes to have the movie end on such a gripping, apocalyptic note! Of course, many people believe these characters will be revived - come on, are you really going to kill off Black Panther? - somehow in Avengers 4, especially as there is already GOTG 3 in the works as well as Spiderman 2 & Black Panther 2. This probably means some of the OG Avengers are gonna hit the bucket, but we've had a good run with them and it's time for some new faces. Fingers crossed Bucky becomes the new cap (Seb Stan still has 3 movies left in his contract!) Will cry all over again I'm sure next April but I just cannot wait to go see it!!! Thank God Captain Marvel arrives next March - this girl gonna kick some purple ass in Avengers 4 no doubt! If you haven't seen this movie yet, WHAT ARE YOU DOING? GOOOO!!!
Call Me by Your Name (2017)
A Truly Beautiful Piece of Cinema
This movie is truly beautiful. It is a work of artistic beauty in so many ways and I will enjoy watching it again many times in the future.
The movie is slow in pace but this reflects the nature of time in the summer: slow, easy and free- flowing. There is nowhere to be at a specific time, no agenda to meet, just slow summer days and the beauty that comes with being this at ease. I think that is one of the beautiful elements within the film: it reflects this Italian/European lifestyle which perhaps we should all think more seriously about, as what is life when you are constantly rushing to meet this deadline or catch this certain train when you compare it to the life of living out in the rustic countryside, eating fresh fruit and swimming in the local river? I know the film is set in the 80's, but that is not to say people today still do not live like this at least part of the year.
Anyway, from someone who has never seen a LGBT based movie before, I felt a bit unprepared and as if I had nothing to compare it to. Although by the end of the film I really didn't feel I needed to as the love story transcends any artificial labels to simply express a pure and innocent tale of first love that is rarely as genuinely portrayed within cinema. I think both Chamalet and Hammer did wonderful jobs in their performances, balancing the innocence and curiosity of Elio with the experience and desire of Oliver. Chamalet in particular, I believe, as a younger actor, brought a great deal of raw emotion into his performance which really enhances the whole film overall.
The beautiful landscapes combined with the focus on the Italian lifestyle brings another wonderful element to the film and really helps to complete the story. The symbolism within the film, with the ripe peaches, also builds on the artistic direction of the film that is sure to make it a possible contender for the awards season next year. I certainly hope that the film wins at least for Best Foreign Film, yet I would hope that it would garner wider recognition and very much hope that Chamalet is considered for Best Actor. The speech by Elio's father at the end of the film, played by the talented Mr Micheal Stuhlbarg, is very moving and really has a wonderful message in the end I think that challenges us all to think about how we live our lives and how we judge others.
Thor: Ragnarok (2017)
Knew it would be good, but it turned out to be amazing.
I was generally unsure of whether I wanted to go see the movie at first - sure, it had appeal because of Chris Hemsworth and Tom Hiddleston, and I very much enjoyed the first two Thor movies but this one looked a bit intense and zany to me from the trailer. BUT OH MY GOD I LOVED THIS FILM. EVERY MINUTE OF IT. It was really, really great! I did not at all expect to enjoy it just this much, I feel like I want to go see it again!
The main thing that sets it apart from other Marvel movies is the comic quality, which unexpectedly comes mostly from Thor himself. Hemsworth was really wonderful in this movie, allowing us to see a more comic side to Thor certainly missing from a lot the first Thor film where he is far more serious. Then there's also Jeff Goldblum, who as a natural comic and entertainer, is just wonderful in his role as the eccentric Grand Master. I certainly didn't expect to laugh as much in this movie as I did, and literally at one point could not stop laughing from one of Thor's lines! Plus, the director's own role as Korg, the rock being, is an equally brilliant comic element within the film.
The comedy combined with the amazing visuals as well as the zany and bizarre theme to the film which I believe is generated by the artistic direction of Taika Waititi makes this film a must-see. I was really pleased to see the progression of characters within this film without anything feeling forced by some agenda, it all just falls into place, especially in regards to Thor and Loki - the latter of whom I am particularly glad to see a ray of hope in the midst of his mischievous ways! Then, the introduction of Valkyrie is I think also a very good thing as she is a strong female character who surely has flaws but is also beautiful and bad-ass. Bruce Banner/The Hulk is also an interesting progression of character in the film - we actually see the Hulk speak instead of just always grunting and fighting, but then we realize Banner has actually been the Hulk for two years and hasn't transformed back so this is obviously something Banner struggles to come to terms with.
Overall, I would strongly recommend this movie to anyone who is in need of cheering up, it provides such a great escape from our daily realities and submerges you into a world of fantasy. The inclusion of LED ZEPPELIN'S IMMIGRANT SONG twice in the movie is also AWESOME!!!