Latest Reviews
Our 20 most recently published reviews and ratings.
Chef's Table
"Chef's Table" is a binge-worthy web series that's not just for foodies, but also the average Netflixer in search of a comforting yet visually engaging watch. Each episode is a profile of a single chef's journey, showcasing the person's unique approach, philosophy, and often the struggle that shaped them and their cuisine. It's far from the usual yelling-chefs and dramatic ingredients reveal we see on many cooking shows. Instead, it's quiet, reflective, and true to the chefs that it showcases. The cinematography is breathtaking – close-up shots of artfully plated dishes that you can almost taste and exterior shots that transport you to all corners of the globe. The narrative strength lies in its humanization of the chefs, painting them not merely as culinary wizards, but as artists driven by passion and tenacity. Some episodes can trek into overly grand territory, framing the chefs more as world-changing revolutionaries than dedicated professionals, but it's an enjoyable embellishment for the most part. Where "Chef's Table" really excels is in its overall tone. It's calming, thought-provoking, and at times, humbling. It unveils the often unseen hard work and determination concealed behind each beautiful dish that arrives on the table. If you're a fan of documentaries, gastronomy, or just watching glossily shot food, this series could very well be your next Netflix fix.
Carnivàle
"Carnivàle" is a dark and atmospheric drama set in the United States during the great depression era. Follow the intriguing journey of Ben Hawkins, a mysterious, quiet farm boy with healing abilities, who joins a traveling carnival. The show dives into the dualities of good vs evil, exploring these concepts in an almost biblical sense. The show is beautifully shot, enthralling you with breathtaking cinematography and symbolic intricacies. From the richly developed characters to the gritty, raw exploration of the human condition, the narrative's depth is truly remarkable. Clancy Brown's performance as Brother Justin Crowe, the eerie antagonist, brings chills every time he's on screen. While it got cut short after only two seasons, the plot can sometimes feel a bit slow, and that may be why it didn't garner enough viewers. But for those who love an intricate, slow-burning plot with supernatural elements and exceptional performances, this show is perfect for you.
Badlands
Badlands, directed by Terrence Malick, is a haunting portrayal of young love spiraling into a crime spree that captures the disillusionment of the American Dream. Inspired by the real-life murder spree of Charles Starkweather and Caril Ann Fugate, the film follows Kit (Martin Sheen) and Holly (Sissy Spacek) as they leave behind their small-town life for a road trip filled with violence and tension. It captures an eerie calmness amidst the chaos, as they traverse towards an unavoidable tragic end. Martin Sheen's performance as the charming, charismatic sociopath is highly compelling. Contrasted with the innocent, almost indifferent tone of Sissy Spacek's voiceover narrative, the movie leaves a deep uneasiness, making you question the motivations behind violent acts. Malick's atmospheric cinematography blends with the disturbing storyline in an unsettling harmony. Badlands isn't for everybody. Its pace is unhurried and there's no traditional payoff in its storytelling. However, for fans of beautiful visuals and chilling narratives, the film is a must-see. It presents a grim reality in immaculate compositions, making it both horrifying yet oddly captivating.
Better Off Ted
Better Off Ted is a delightful satirical sitcom set in a soulless, comically evil corporation called Veridian Dynamics. The multi-talented Jay Harrington plays Ted Crisp, head of the research and development department, dealing with bizarre office politics and ethically questionable projects. Andrea Anders as Linda Zwordling, Ted's love interest, shines with her comedic performance. What stood out was the way the show balances absurdist comedy with a sharp, insightful corporate critique, presenting a unique perspective of the corporate world. It's packed with rapid-fire jokes, delightfully strange office situations, and a touch of heart. The chemistry between the characters is lively, particularly the goofy dynamic between lab scientists Phil and Lem. However, the series may not land for audiences seeking realism or emotional depth due to its surreal, high-concept approach. If you love workplace comedies like "The Office" or "Parks and Recreation", but crave a more bizarre twist, Better Off Ted could be your next binge watch.
Downfall
"Downfall" transports us to Hitler's bunker during his last days at the end of World War II. My attention was held by Bruno Ganz's engrossing performance as Hitler, a role that he delivers with frightening conviction. Ganz offers a nuanced human portrait of the dictator that we usually only see as a caricature of pure evil, showing his moments of both hysterical rage and tender affection. The structure of the film is not linear, rather there are characters that come in and out of focus providing different perspectives on the horrific events unfolding. There are moments of quiet amidst the chaos that give space for introspection, like when Hitler's secretary, Traudl Junge, tells a child soldier that the world is not only good and evil, black and white. Certain moments feel overly dramatized for cinematic effect. For instance, the subplot of Hitler's doctor, which feels somewhat peripheral to the main narrative. Overall, however, the film offers an intense, bleak depiction of a historical moment that can be appreciated by history buffs and fans of war dramas.
Brain Games
Brain Games is a documentary series that explores the science of the brain through interactive games and hidden camera experiments. It's a show that will certainly capture your attention. One particular moment that sticks out is when they had people repeat a sequence of flashing lights, revealing the brain’s inability to retain several pieces of information at once. While the series is highly engaging and insightful, it can sometimes feel a bit simplistic, especially if you have a background in psychology or neuroscience. However, the charm of Brain Games lies in its accessibility. The information is presented in a light-hearted and enjoyable way, making it a fantastic watch for young people or anyone with an interest in understanding human behavior and the mind. One aspect that really makes the show shine is the host, Jason Silva. His enthusiasm and excitement are infectious. He has a knack for making complex concepts easily understandable and entertaining. This, combined with brain teasers and social experiments, makes Brain Games a fun, educational journey worth your time.
A Scanner Darkly
Eerie, dystopian, and outright trippy, "A Scanner Darkly" is a science fiction movie based on Philip K. Dick's novel of the same name. It circles around an undercover cop, Bob Arctor, in a not-so-distant futuristic society that is severely impacted by drug use. The movie creatively employs the rotoscope animation tech, and your eyes are in for a treat as reality seamlessly merges and segregates with the altered perceptions of drug hallucinations. Keanu Reeves (as Bob Arctor), paints a complicated mosaic of a man split between his duty and his own descent into substance misuse, while Robert Downey Jr., Woody Harrelson, and Winona Ryder bring formidable performances enhancing the disorienting tones of the narrative. The hallucinatory banter among the characters gives some of the most memorable moments in the movie. There were places though where the movie felt more confusing and abstract than necessary. A coherent narrative takes a backseat, but maybe that's the point—submerging the viewers into the fragmented and volatile minds of the characters. Recommended for those who enjoy films that bend reality and explore deep social issues.
The Killing
The Killing is an American crime drama series based on the Danish series Forbrydelsen (The Crime). This dark and gripping series follows Seattle police detectives Sarah Linden and Stephen Holder as they try to solve real gritty, complex murder cases, usually taking an entire season to uncover the truth. The quietly compelling stories, with a muted palette of seattle rain and gloom, create an atmospheric experience that is truly captivating. Mireille Enos as Detective Linden and Joel Kinnaman as her partner Holder are both stellar in their performances. They portray an intrinsic relationship between two people navigating the grim realities of their jobs, and their chemistry is palpable and authentic. There are moments of chilling suspense, particularly towards the climax of each season, where hairs stand-up on the back of your neck. Some might argue that the series can move a bit slow paced with various subplots that at times feels disconnecting, but largely it helps creating a wide narrative landscape. The Killing does require patience, but rewards viewer with intelligent storytelling, strong character development, and a sense of realism. It is an ideal watch for anyone who relishes methodically paced crime dramas, where story is king and suspense is effectively maintained till the end.
Northern Exposure
Northern Exposure is one of those gems that takes you by surprise. Set in the fictional small town of Cicely, Alaska, it follows young New York City doctor, Joel Fleischman (Rob Morrow), who's forced to fulfill his medical contract in an offbeat town full of eccentric characters. Believe me when I say this isn’t your typical fish-out-of-water story. What made this show pop for me are the genuinely heartwarming and humorous moments woven into deeply philosophical musings. The chemistry between Morrow and Janine Turner, who portrays Maggie—a fiercely independent pilot and Joel's primary romantic interest, is electric and adds a hint of will-they-won’t-they tension. However, the lone wolf narrative didn’t quite land for me at times, but it doesn’t detract from the overall charm. If you appreciate character-driven stories and offbeat humor, Northern Exposure promises a quirky journey peppered with life's existential dilemmas. It's a little Twin Peaks, a little M*A*S*H, with a dash of that Gilmore Girls small-town magic. Definitely underrated and worth checking out.
Taboo
Taboo is a period drama that takes you back to 1814, chronically the intricate machinations of James Keziah Delaney (Tom Hardy), a man thought dead who mysteriously returns to London. The enigma of Delaney, who's fresh off an extended stint in Africa, grips you as you follow him reclaim his late father's shipping empire and deal with numerous enemies in a corrupt and suffering society. Tom Hardy, who's also the show's co-creator, delivers a riveting performance, embodying Delaney's intense, brooding persona with not just words but with his eyes and demeanor. The script, penned by Hardy and his father, dives deep into the heart of colonial brutality, the struggle for power in murky economical trading, and the slow bloom of supernatural themes. Another highlight is the cinematography, slipping in and out of bleak gray London skylines and vivid hallucinations. Despite the strong performances and distinctive visual style, Taboo occasionally gets bogged down in its own complexity, the ambiguity sometimes tipping to obscurity. But for those who enjoy a layered, slow-burning narrative, punctuated by powerful lead performances and a peek into historical conflicts, this one's worth the watch.
My Neighbor Totoro
A tender, heartwarming work of animated wonder, "My Neighbor Totoro" comes from the genius that is Hayao Miyazaki and the Studio Ghibli team. At its core, it's a heartfelt story about two young daughters and their father who relocate to the countryside to be closer to their sick mother. The movie so beautifully paints the thrills and fears of childhood against the backdrop of stunning landscapes and these fascinating, lovingly hand-drawn creatures, particularly the big, warm, and fuzzy Totoro. What really stands out in "My Neighbor Totoro" is the ability of Miyazaki to bridge the gap between reality and fantasy. When the girls meet and interact with Totoro and other magical creatures, it's not overly dramatic but rather shown with an everyday casualness, which I feel adds to the charm and attracts both adults and children. The Cat Bus - which is quite literally an oversized grinning cat that serves as a transport - is yet another amusing detail that strangely fits into this comforting yet whimsically adventurous narrative. Although most people tackle this movie as a children's film, I think it goes well beyond that. The themes of family, nature, and coping with a sick loved one might strike a chord with many adults too. So, some moments may seem too simplistic for an older audience looking for deep plot twists or dramatic tension. But for those into animated movies that offer a mix of subtle reality, enchanting fantasy, and heart-touching moments, this one's a gem.
Spaced
Spaced is a British comedy series about two twenty-something friends who pretend to be a couple in order to secure an apartment. It's the masterpiece that brought us the likes of Simon Pegg and Nick Frost along with the director, Edgar Wright. The show is quirky, packed full with pop culture references and British Humor, and it feels very indie with its visual gags and terrific editing—almost like a live-action comic. The chemistry between Tim (Simon Pegg) and Daisy (Jessica Stevenson) is outstanding and timeless. Each episode has a crazy and imaginative plot but the series never loses its footing or becomes overwhelming. It's unforgettable moments include battling robots, defensive martial arts known as 'gun-fu', and a slow motion shootout. However, the series ended after just two seasons making it feel unfinished. Yet, it doesn’t leave you unsatisfied. Those who enjoy quick-witted humor, pop culture references, and the familiar DIY Indie vibe will fall in love with Spaced. Pegg, Frost, and Wright have all gone on to bigger and better things but Spaced is where they found their voice, and it's essential viewing for fans of their work.
Tucker: The Man and His Dream
First things first, Tucker: The Man and His Dream is an American biographical film directed by Francis Ford Coppola that dives into the life of Preston Tucker, an optimist and genius automobile designer who dared to challenge the corporate giants of Detroit in the 1940s. The marvelous Jeff Bridges plays Tucker and nails it with his eccentric, charisma-filled portrayal that shows an innovative man being crushed under the weight of corporate greed and shortsightedness. The vibrancy of Coppola's direction, and the depth and energy of Bridges' performance stands out as the high points. The film is filled with Coppola's signature style of lush, scenic visual sequences - like watch the scene where Tucker unveils his futuristic car model in a musical-like number. An important cue from the film is how it emphasizes on failure and adversity, not as an end, but as a chance to grow and do better, which some might find inspiring. On the downside, the film falls short in its attempt to simplify Tucker's complex legal battles, hence leaving certain dramatic events feeling less impactful. This is not a movie for those seeking hardcore action sequences or romantic escapades. Instead, it's a gem for those who love historical dramas and character-driven plots with a touch of innovative theatricality.
The Leftovers
The Leftovers is a compelling drama series based on Tom Perrotta's novel of the same name. The plot revolves around the after-effects of a global event, "The Sudden Departure", where 2% of the world's population disappears without explanation. Initially starting as a reflection on grief, the series gradually transforms into a profound exploration of existence and faith. The performances across the board are fantastic, especially Carrie Coon and Justin Theroux. Coon's portrayal of a mother who lost her entire family in the Departure and Theroux as a conflicted cop grappling with his own existential crises truly stand out. The narrative can be deeply emotional, at times even devastating, but also surprisingly humorous. Some viewers may find the series' pacing slow, or struggle with its lack of clear answers. However, if ambiguity doesn't bother you and you value character development over plot, you might find The Leftovers remarkably rewarding. Its haunting score, complex characters and thought-provoking themes make it a truly unique viewing experience.
Inside No. 9
Inside No. 9, brought to you by Reece Shearsmith and Steve Pemberton of 'The League of Gentlemen' fame, is a British dark comedy anthology series. Each episode has a different story, and in true anthology style, they're all independent of each other and set inside 'No. 9' - whether that's a house, a flat, a bunk, a dressing room, or even a shoe. It's an unconventional show, with a new plot and cast each episode, making every viewing a surprising experience. The genuine unpredictability of the characters and the circumstances they find themselves in is what drew me in. Shearsmith and Pemberton's twisted humor often takes a backseat to unexpected heartfelt moments. But be prepared, alongside the chuckles there are also genuine moments of horror and suspense that keep you on the edge. Its distinct cleverness and underlying wit make every episode a delight. However, the show isn't for everyone. If you prefer a series with a continuous narrative, you might find Inside No. 9 frustrating. But if you're up for a mix of comedy, horror, and suspense, with an overarching sense of unpredictability and novelty, this beautifully strange show might just be up your alley.
Let the Right One In
Let the Right One In is a Swedish external tale of adolescence and a twisted love story. Our protagonist, Oskar, is a bullied 12 year old boy who finds comfort in a peculiar girl, Eli, he meets in his dreary apartment block. But soon, it becomes evident that Eli is no ordinary girl. This movie combines the cruel reality of growing up lonely and bullied, contrasted with the supernatural events tied to Eli and her guardian. What stood out in this movie, besides the intense and brilliant storyline, is the sheer elegance in which a complicated narrative like this gas been represented. Amidst darkness, terror and gore, how the bond between the two protagonists has been developed is simply fascinating. The relationship between Oskar and Eli is portrayed innocently and with sensitivity, making the climax all the way more impactful. While the movie is universally appreciated for its uniqueness and intensity, for some the occasional violent scenes might be a bit much. The movie, however, is not about shock value; instead, it focuses on the portrayal of an unconventional love story. If you're someone who loves intense, character-driven narratives with a hint of supernatural, then "Let the Right One In" is a must-watch.
Slings and Arrows
Slings and Arrows is a Canadian TV series about a struggling Shakespearean theater company. It's a perfect mix of humor, drama, and artistry with an endearing reverence for the Bard and his works. Despite its comedic undertone, it portrays the distress, euphoria, and chaos that typically goes hand-in-hand with theater-making in such an authentic way. The standout performance of the series has to be Paul Gross, who plays the tortured artistic director Geoffrey Tennant. His manic energy, comic timing and heartbreaking vulnerability carry the show. The other characters from the quirky heads of department to the oh-so-drama-queen actors add depth and heart and sometimes a good laugh. The term "hidden gem" gets thrown around a lot, but in this case, it fits perfectly because Slings and Arrows is criminally underwatched. If you're a lover of Shakespeare, theater, or riveting character-driven stories, this show is for you. It dropped the ball just a little bit in its portrayal of mental health, but it remains steeped in such startling realness and layered storytelling that every theater lover needs to see it.
A Single Man
A Single Man is a deeply sorrowful tale based on the novel of the same name by Christopher Isherwood. It's a story about a college professor George Falconer, as he struggles with life after the sudden death of his partner. Directed and co-written by Tom Ford, it is a film of style, substance, and astonishingly mature storytelling. What truly sets this movie apart is Colin Firth's superb performance as Falconer. He's a man trying to maintain a semblance of normalcy despite his profound grief. The subtleties of Firth's acting – a glance here, a sigh there – are heartbreakingly effective. Julianne Moore also shines as Falconer’s close friend and confidante. Some aspects of the film aren’t as seamless as Ford likely intended, for instance, the overuse of flashbacks at certain points distracts rather than enhancing the narrative. A Single Man is not for everyone. It’s a solemn and introspective film that requires a certain mood to fully appreciate. However, if you're a fan of Colin Firth, or enjoy films that delve into the human experience in an intimate way, this could be a unique pick for you.
Wallander
Wallander is a British crime drama, adapted from Swedish novelist Henning Mankell's best-selling "Wallander" detective novels. The show, led by Kenneth Branagh as the grizzled Detective Kurt Wallander, revolves around solving gruesome crimes in the picturesque but often sinister landscapes of Skåne, Sweden. Branagh brings a tangible sense of world-weariness and existential dread to his character, making you feel the weight each case adds to his already heavy shoulders. One thing that sets this series apart is its stunning cinematography. Wallander is known for making the most of its rural Swedish setting, presenting us with a breath-taking but eerie backdrop which becomes a character in its own right. On top of this, there's a palpable blend of the melancholia, dread, and occasional humour that is characteristic of Scandinavian crime fiction. Wallander isn't without its flaws. Some of the episodes are way too grim, and the pacing can be a bit on the sluggish side. Nevertheless, for those seeking a deeply character-driven detective series that's willing to dive into the existential cesspool with its protagonist, "Wallander" is going to hit the spot.
The Closer
The Closer follows the story of Deputy Chief Brenda Leigh Johnson, played by the immensely talented Kyra Sedgwick, who arrives from Atlanta to head up the Priority Homicide Division of the LAPD. Johnson's unconventional and often controversial methods to solve cases set her apart, making the show a thrilling watch. The interplay between Johnson’s southern charm and her tough, no-nonsense approach to crime-solving creates an intriguing juxtaposition that truly drives the series. What stands out in this series is not just the fast-paced and intricate plotlines, but the brilliantly executed character development. You come for the crime-solving, but you stay for the richly drawn characters that you slowly get to know and love. At times the storylines can become a bit convoluted and may require your undivided attention. Yet, the compelling performances by the seasoned cast make it worth the watch. Fans of crime drama and strong female leads will certainly enjoy The Closer. It redefines the genre by placing a woman at its centre who is flawed, intelligent, and fiercely dogged in her determination to find the truth. If you are looking for a show that combines suspense, personal drama, and tactful humor, give this one a watch.