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Young Sheldon (2017)
A Great Prequel Spinoff Series to Big Bang Theory with A Heart Wrenching Finale
After witnessing what was possibly the most heart wrenching series finale ever that caused me to have a panic attack and breakdown like a little bizznitch, I can safely say that this prequel to The Big Bang Theory can go down in history for delivering a quirky and whimsical overall tone while also bringing the thunder where and when it counted in the show's final moments. The acting was pretty stellar and while some episodes in the series 7 season run had some misses and ups and downs, it more so left you feeling complete by how it ended. All strings were tied to connect it to The Big Bang Theory and beyond along with rounding out most of the story arcs for the main characters. Overall, if you're looking for a great little sitcom that'll make you chuckle here and there while going the distance in the final 3 episodes and making you feel like you're in a glass case of emotion with no way out, then give Young Sheldon a shot. Or don't. I'm sure he wouldn't care either way because he's smarter than you and knows it.
Baby Reindeer (2024)
Messed Up But Oddly Immersive
I kept hearing buzz about this one from numerous places so I decided to take a gander and found that right off the bat the show wasted no time pulling any punches in the severely demented department. The two characters being showcases on this show are very mentally unstable and I think the theme here is better mental help and support for folks out there who are simply unwell emotionally. The amount of graphic content may be too much for some as well but if you're not too disturbed or just mildly disturbed by the situations unfolding on screen then you may find yourself being sucked in a bit and immersed into the depraved world of Donny a late 20 something bartender with hopes at becoming an aspiring comedian by night only to come up short on his stand ups almost every time. Until he meets Martha, a woman who is about 15 plus years his senior and is severely charismatic to a fault that you soon begin to see. Donny becomes intoxicated with her addictive personality and presence and while he isn't physically attracted to her per se he finds himself constantly thinking about her even while with his significant others. The rabbit hole only gets deeper and darker as as each episode unfolds in the short 7 episode run which are only about 30 min each on average. It all comes to a head to in a gripping, bone chilling finale that makes you seriously think about how messed up the people in this world can be sometimes, preying on weak minded individuals to further their sick, twisted goals and agendas. Overall, if you're a fan of psychologically charged dramas and have a strong enough mental state to endure some cringe worthy segments, then give this one a whirl.
X-Men '97 (2024)
A Near Perfect Organism
I had no idea what to expect going into this but with a lot of folks out there saying it's very well crafted along with the scores I've been seeing online I decided to first rewatch the original X-Men '92 series first prior to this just to have the full effect and boy oh boy was it almost a night and day comparison in regards to how much alike yet different each show is. While '92 is more geared towards children more times than any, '97 is pretty much grounded most of the time and delivers such an impactful tale from start to finish that isn't disjointed and all over the place like the original series but rather laser focused and gets deeper and darker as each episode unfolds. I also found it pretty stellar they got most of the original voice actors back. It just takes some getting used to the new voice actors for Professor X and Magneto. If I had to have any gripe or complaint about the show it's that some or one plot point that carried over from the '92 series isn't really explained all too well until the last couple of episodes and even then it feels kinda of a little too convenient to the plot. The cameos that toss in here and there too were pretty awesome yet subtle. They even had throw backs to the 70's-80's X-Men and also dug into the X-Men movies too, parodying themselves which I found quite hilarious. Overall it's such a great indulgence of a show that sucks you in and spits you out feeling like you took part of something with meaning and conviction that will leave you salivating while waiting for a second season. And saddle up folks because I read we may be waiting a few more years for a second season as the creators and writers said that the first season took years to craft and that is just A-Okay with me. Take all the time you need to weave and spin another round of mutanagenic gold.
Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (2024)
Stick With The Remake Trilogy
While I didn't hate this new entry in what will probably the next trilogy of Apes films, it just could not hold a candle to that of its three predecessor films. For one it was way too bloated coming in at almost 2.5 hours. Secondly it took forever to get going and once it finally did it just kind of ended with a cliffhanger that I guess was meant to be interesting and intriguing but came off as cheap, forcing the audience to wait a few more years to see what happens next. What I also found ironic though is in a movie with such a long runtime it felt like it rushed through some of the more important plot points such as the lead ape Noa getting to learn the history of how the evolved apes came to be from his newly encountered friend Rocka, a last surviving ape of the clan of Caesar who studied all the ways of the founding elder ape Caesar. By the end of the film Noa was preaching the Old Testament of Andy Serkis' Caesar like he was studying the works of Caesar for months to years when he and Rocka only were in each other's presence for a mere days if that. Also they don't really explain how Freya Allen's May human character can speak unless that's just kinda what happens after hundreds of years of humans devolving. They just kinda sorta evolve on their own again. Oh whatever. What I did like about the film was the acting was pretty on point. Proximus Caesar sounded menacing and Rocka's ape character was charismatic and entertaining while as brief as his on screen presence was. I also liked the special effects. The apes looked and felt as visually stunning as ever before. Other than that it was just kinda lacking in the impactful department. I was bored half the time and looking at my watch wondering where the chase was and when we were going to cut to it. If and when the next film comes out I'm not going to see it in theaters though that's for sure. It'll be a streaming special thru and thru.
Spider-Man 2 (2023)
Spectacularly Amazing!!!
Just when you think Insomniac cannot get anymore amazing and spectacular, they somehow manage to outperform themselves. Besides minor gripes in regards to repetitive crimes and an odd choice of verbiage for naming Miles enhanced abilities after one of the main villains in the game, this was a stellar sequel. The story alone is a 9.5/10 for me. It's the Spider-Man 3 film we deserve. Not the crap we got. Who would have thought utilizing and combining 2 characters in such a way that hasn't really been done in the comics before would work tenfold. And even beyond that the way it ended sets up a very exciting
3rd entry in the series. One of the main villains hinted for the 3rd game was exposed in one of the side missions of all places and it was executed in such a subtle fashion once you figured out who the villain was going to be it was an utter delight to the senses. Combat and upgrade wise it pretty much built and grew off of the first game offering some enhancements to abilities and unique powers for both Miles and Peter alike. Peter has his spider arms at his disposal whereas Miles had his electro shock spider abilities, each with evolved upgrades the more you progress in the story. Quality of life improvements such as adding the most welcome and epic web wings to glide around the city at will which can only be enhanced by finding wind tunnels scattered around the city. And swapping between Miles and Peter was as slick and smooth and seamless as you would think. Also balancing both characters evenly with the story was nicely paced I felt. Even Mary Jane had oddly cool parts, partially because they gave her a way to fight back this time which was pretty rad. And the side missions were created uniquely that were tailored for both Miles and Peter separately so you needed to switch back and forth between each hero to do those side missions. And thankfully no more annoying catch the pigeon side missions in this game. And the amount of enemy bases to take down were kept to a minimum as well which were nice and allowed more of a focus on the story and more interesting side quests. Overall, this was simply sensational all around minus a few minor pet peeves. I am thoroughly looking forward to the 3rd and potentially final installment in this Spider-Man trilogy and shall indeed happily and merrily web swing my way there once it releases in the coming years.
War for the Planet of the Apes (2017)
A Satisfying Emotional Finale
The conclusion to the apes reboot films goes out with quite the bang in this emotionally fueled tale that picks up shortly after the last movie wrapped with Caesar and his gang being on the run and defensive after military forces are hot on his trail when a distress signal was called after the final battle in the previous film. The plot has pretty even pacing for the most part and offers great acting all around, once again especially from Andy Serkis. He should have won an Oscar for this role by now but sadly the Academy doesn't recognize motion capture work yet but should by now in my opinion because they're missing out on recognizing such great performances such as his. This is also a much darker and somber movie than the last two in the series as the stakes were never higher and the ending has such a rewarding emotional payoff that I can't help but tear up each time I witness it. Overall, minus some minor plot holes like how can some characters go undetected in an area surrounded by plenty of security etc, the movie is pretty well rounded while borrowing from many other classic films in the past that resembles a little bit of Escape From Alcatraz, Apocalypse Now, The Ten Commandments, Spartacus and more and just works as a whole to deliver a memorable film with likeable characters that'll stick with you for the long haul.
Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014)
A Truly Worthy Sequel
Compared to its predecessor, this movie pretty much feels like night and day, expanding upon so much that's transpired from the last film. First off the acting from the likes of Andy Serkis as Caesar somehow get even more profound and stellar, delivering a powerfully emotional performance that will only get better with the final installment in this trilogy. Next you have the constant tug of war between the apes in their community splitting them apart between diverse ideological views on humans. At it's best the movie tries to come off as deep and intelligent and it works for the most part, that is until you see an ape on horseback dual wielding assault rifles and lunging into a tank head first. But it's still an awesome spectacle to witness with some truly breathtaking cinematography especially during the battle scenes. The weak points of the movie as expected come from the humans. They try to come off like they have depth and meaning but in the end fall flat and just end up being a little too uninteresting next to the inspiring apes. Overall if you're a fan of the series or not if you like some interesting alternate reality concepts mixed with a little action and some shocking and kind of shocking and disturbing scenes that showcase the blight and folly of man that might even transcend humanity into another species, give this one a whirl.
Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011)
Sets a Solid Foundation for the Trilogy
This entry pretty much just sets and lays the ground work for what's to come and it does it well for the most part minus a few folly's here and there in the plot which kind of raises an eyebrow at certain decisions made within the narrative. But other than that it's a very enjoyable flick with great performances from a pretty decent cast. Andy Serkis steals the show though as doing the motion capture work for Caesar. His performance only gets more and more robust with each entry in this Apes trilogy too. Plus besides like I said some plot holes and silly decisions being made throughout the film, the tale of how the whole thing started and where it's headed is intriguing and interesting enough to keep you invested throughout. Overall if there's and Apes trilogies or films I can suggest it would be to start with this one as it offers what likely becomes arguably the best Planet of the Apes trilogy to date.
Ninja Kamui (2024)
If Cyberpunk 2077 and Ninja Gaiden Had a Baby, It's Ninja Kamui
All flash, no substance. I typically use this term when giving my take on video games, but it can certainly apply here for this high octane anime on Max that focuses on ninjas and shinobi. At it's best it delivers an adrenaline junkie filled cavalcade of fast paced action with pretty smooth animations for the most part, with the exception of some of the last few episodes where the animation got a little strange and funky. In regards to the story, it starts off at a typical revenge tale with a brutal opening episode but unfortunately kind of begins to lose focus after that. The pacing is a problem and keeps jumping around without staying in one spot long enough for the audience to absorb what's happening until the final climactic battle when they try and rope it all in and it just feels very messy overall story wise. However, if you just want something to pretty much shut your brain off and enjoy the flashy pretty colors and ninja battles with over the top cheesy at times dialogue that feels like the English voice actors are just showing up for that easy paycheck and reading off script, then you may find some entertainment to be found with this one. But alas it is still no Blue Eye Samurai, which to me was top shelf Americanized anime of late.
How I Met Your Mother (2005)
An Enjoyable and Humorous Sitcom with Some Flaws
I finally got around to watching this in full and can say I enjoyed all of the shows shenanigans and quirky moments for the most part alongside its memorable cast. While the show definitely had its ups and down throughout the nine seasons, which includes some more frustrating moments as you ride the lightning with all of the main character's follies along the way, there were many more moments of emotional payoff that superseded the more annoying parts of the show, coupled with stellar acting from most of the ensemble along the journey. Barney Stinson is a living and breathing life size Quagmire from Family Guy and dare I say it, legend-wait for it-dary! And definitely the best part of this show. I also resonated with main character Ted and Marshall's undying love for the Star Wars trilogy. Now in regards to the mixed reaction of a finale, without spoiling much, I can honestly see why people had an issue with it. However, it was a pretty much give or take for me. I can go either way with how the finale ended and with the direction as to how the series wrapped all I kept saying to myself over and over again was we waited nine seasons for this??? But not in a bad way as one would imagine, but more in a "Wow we could've wrapped this up in a lot less than nine seasons folks!" But I digress the show as a whole is very humorous whimsical and if you're a fan of any of the classic sitcoms from the 90s and early 2000 you'll definitely find enjoyment here and then some.
Shôgun (2024)
A Great Period Drama
I really enjoyed this mini series and even though it was not the action packed show that I was expecting, I managed to find value within this dramatic tale of loyalty, deception and subterfuge within one of the many warring periods of Japan's history. The Sengoku era of conflict felt like a solid ground to set the tale in that centered around a shipwrecked England native who has to adapt and learn the Japanese customs to survive. And not all is as it seems with plotting and conniving threads transpiring in the background that keep you guessing from one moment to the next. The best way I can describe Shogun is Game of Thrones meets The Last Samurai with a focus on a last effort by a doomed Japanese samurai clan to make one final push to sieze power and control while a foreigner is learning their ways and trying their best to survive and rise to station within their land. There's some heavy hitting performances too by the cast and a slew of moments where you're on the edge of your seat, especially in the last few episodes. Lastly, while it does not possess a heavy focus on action like some other Samurai movies, it makes up for it with its cunning and witty dialogue, a-la Game of Thrones. Overall, if you're looking for a smart, well versed, evenly paced historical period drama with a somber yet satisfying bittersweet tone and appreciate the rich, lush Japanese culture then you'll be right at home with this one.
Fallout (2024)
Nuka-Cola Tested. Pip Boy Approved
As a dabbler in the Fallout games having only played Fallout 4 in its entirety and then some yet experiencing the likes of Fallout 3 and New Vegas briefly, I went into this one with low expectations and tickle me pink as I found myself not only liking it but finding it to be pretty great overall. From the acting to the setting and even the old school music soundtrack, which is a staple of the Fallout series, is spot on thru and thru. The plot is evenly paced focusing on 3 main characters along with various sub-characters and even with all of the time jumping it does from the past to present, I felt like it was so tightly wounded that when all the main characters converge in the finale there was such a satisfying payoff. What begins as a simple rescue mission ends in a culmination of various revelations that change the characters worlds as they know it. I was also fearing that the show would suffer the plague known as "The Girl Boss" where insert Mary Sue here who's immediately overpowered and invincible isn't faced with many challenges or hurdles to overcome and rest assured dear viewer that isn't the case here when it comes to Lucy the vault dweller. She's naive and vulnerable at the start but the character development on her is very well fleshed out and she becomes quite the sturdy gal by the season finale. This can be said about most of the main characters too. Walton Goggins is especially delightful yet tragic to watch as The Ghoul. Lastly I appreciated all of cool references to the game series such as the weapons to radiation equipment like rads items and even the vault tec gear like the Pip Boy. They also nailed the look and feel of not only most of the game's setting but The Brotherhood of Steel power suit and mannerisms as well. I look forward to season two especially after that great tease in the finale's credits to where they're headed next.
Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League (2024)
What a Disappointment
I truly disliked this experience. Not as a whole but the live service aspect gave me such a sour taste for this game as to what it could have been that I'm forever going to be salty because of it as I once held the developer Rocksteady in such high regard. Now that they have been consumed by the dark side all we have left to do is roll with the punches in a hollow game that's filled with repetitive missions, combat and loot to an extent of insanity. The only thing holding this game somewhat together is the interesting story that adds some levity and depth to what's otherwise a very poorly constructed game. Even the controls are bonkers at times, asking you to hit a random combo of buttons to weaken certain enemy types or bosses that just feels manic and unnatural. But getting back to the only saving grace of this game for me. The story is pretty good for what it's worth and the team had kind of had a Guardians of the Galaxy like feel and humor surrounding the Suicide Squad. I did enjoy their banter and chemistry and felt that they achieved decent character development by the time the game's story wrapped. Braniac is an intriguing villain to boot and I thought was a good choice for this type of story and setting. However with that being said it's just a shame this is how the late, great Kevin Conroy had to be remembered as The Batman before he passed on. I'm sure this is not how he wanted his legacy of Batman to end, going out in such an underwhelming fashion. In fact this game and story is not considered canon to me in the Arkham-verse. Arkham Knight was his last great video game role as far as I'm concerned. This was Earth-2 Batman and friends in a sloppily crafted world. And speaking of world I did not think Metropolis could be so boring and dull even with the highly chaotic things transpiring. It just felt like all I was doing was going from point A to B and ignoring the silly side missions which were just copy/paste wash, rinse and repeat even with some of the familiar Riddler challenges scattered throughout which just felt tacked on with an all too familiar, been there done that with numerous repetitive riddles to undertake. And lastly but certainly not least, it is HIGHLY laughable that the devs think anyone in their right minds would continue this game after the credits roll and go on to defeat Braniac a total of 12 more times in this type of utterly tedious environment. Shame on you Rocksteady and even more shame on you WB Games. You have deeply failed this city.