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Reviews
Madame Web (2024)
Worthy of being in the Marvel Universe
I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed watching Madame Web. Contrary to the many less than favorable reviews, I found the storyline interesting, plenty of action, and the characters engaging. In addition, there would seem to be plenty of opportunities to see these four heroines grow in future installments in what could be a promising franchise for the Marvel Universe. Dakota Johnson brings her character to life in her origin story and there are clear opportunities to see Sydney Sweeney, Isabela Merced and Celeste O'Connor grow into their characters as their origin story develops. It is unfortunate, however, that the reception of Madame Web hasn't been more favorable, which may limit the chance of future installments in this potentially promising franchise. However, with the potential for a crossover with the very successful Spiderman franchise, there might be storylines for a sequel that could be spun; I'll keep my eyes on the web to see if this sticks.
Screams Before Silence (2024)
Powerful documentary of a horrific, brutal tragedy
Sheryl Sandberg's documentary of the brutal, savage, senseless rapes and killings on October 7 is important to watch, and I understand why Sandberg states this is the most important work she has ever done. Despite Sandberg's numerous contributions to society, this may be one of her most significant in trying to bring the brutality of October 7 to a broader audience. Importantly, Sandberg helps to bring a voice to the voiceless, to allow others to hear their screams before they were so horrifically silenced. Those individuals who were present on October 7 who survived, or were hostages that returned, bravely provide great commentary to help us understand what occurred that tragic day. Sadly, for this too, "we must never forget."
Screams Before Silence (2024)
Powerful documentary of a horrific, brutal tragedy
Sheryl Sandberg's documentary of the brutal, savage, senseless rapes and killings on October 7 is important to watch, and I understand why Sandberg states this is the most important work she has ever done. Despite Sandberg's numerous contributions to society, this may be one of her most significant in trying to bring the brutality of October 7 to a broader audience. Importantly, Sandberg helps to bring a voice to the voiceless, to allow others to hear their screams before they were so horrifically silenced. Those individuals who were present on October 7 who survived, or were hostages that returned, bravely provide great commentary to help us understand what occurred that tragic day. Sadly, for this too, "we must never forget."
Curb Your Enthusiasm: No Lessons Learned (2024)
Pretty Pretty Good
Larry David is a genius. The cast is phenomenal. This last season was a gift and the final episode was perfect. General satire coupled with political satire coupled with cringe worthy situations constantly made me laugh out loud. The self referential nature of the Final episode of Curb Your Enthusiasm with scenes from earlier this season, prior seasons and episodes of Seinfeld were brilliant. The parallels between the closing scenes of Curb Your Enthusiasm and Seinfeld were perfect (far exceeding Pretty Pretty Good). I will greatly miss Curb Your Enthusiasm, probably even more than how I missed Seinfeld. The final episode highlighted some of the blurred lines and comic genius of both shows. Fortunately I can still binge watch both Curb and Seinfeld and that gives me Enthusiasm.
The Curse: Green Queen (2024)
Great stars, good plot, perplexing conclusion
The stars are great. I love Nathan Fielder and his acting and Nathan For you is comic genius. The Rehearsal was also hysterical. Emma Stone is one of the best actresses of our generation and fantastic at everything she performs. The series was interesting and I was looking forward to the finale. I was perplexed at the conclusion not understanding the gravity of the situation. I tried reading other explanations of the ending but really wasn't satisfied with any of them. Perhaps if the show conclusion was 10-20 minutes shorter I may have enjoyed it more. Perhaps I need to think more deeply around the symbolism in this and the previous episodes. Maybe it's just me and I will like the conclusion more if I sleep on it... as long as I don't wake up hitting the roof.
January 6th (2022)
Riveting
Excellent documentary chronicling the events of January 6. The use of personal interviews provides a compelling narrative of the intensity of the day. No documentary can do justice to describing the heroics of the capitol police or our congressional representatives or those standing up to the insurrection, but this documentary does a good job at pulling this together. The filmmakers did a fantastic job following the insurrectionists to help put the events of the day in a chronological order to provide a compelling historical perspective. This documentary is highly recommended for anyone interested in appreciating the events of this infamous day.
Love on the Spectrum U.S. (2022)
As good as it gets
Heartwarming series which beautifully shows how much we all want to love and be loved as told through several lovable individuals on the spectrum. You root for everyone in the series to find love, some do while others keep trying. Each story is so well told. This is my favorite series on Netflix and I've enjoyed every season.
WandaVision: We Interrupt This Program (2021)
Gets better and better!
From the initial quirky but entertaining first episodes, episode 4 takes the plot to another level. For those that love Wanda and Vision you will not be disappointed. The Marvel universe is complex, filled with rich storylines and characters you grow to love and these episodes of Wandavision add to this richness.
My Octopus Teacher (2020)
Beautiful
Wonderful documentary that is both educational and inspiring. Using a mask allowed the filmmaker to better see the world around him and its beauty. Highly recommended!
Away (2020)
Engrossing and entertaining
Great characters and character development in this Netflix series. Drama, problem solving and interesting back stories bring this Mission to Mars to life.
Love on the Spectrum (2019)
Best reality series / documentary I've seen on Netflix
The quest for love is universal and poignantly told through the eyes and hearts of those on the spectrum. Not only do we gain a deeper appreciation of those on the spectrum, but also an understanding of their various hopes and dreams; particularly around love. I watched the series twice over two days and loved it.
Chico Bon Bon: Monkey with a Tool Belt (2020)
Chico Bon Bon is sweet!
Very clever show both children and adults will enjoy!
Great humor, wit and music with a lesson in each show! Helping Elkon John in second episode and the various approaches to help are but one example of the episodes wit, charm and learnings (eg pulleys and piñatas). Highly recommended for all!