sanadalsalt Reviews

Kasablanka (2019)

Stars Flicker, Plots Flounder

[2/10 · 20 April 2024]

Hey there! So, I totally get where you're coming from with this one. It can be super frustrating when you're all geared up to watch a movie with some stellar actors, only to find yourself drowning in a sea of confusion right from the get-go. It's like, you're there all pumped to see your favorites do their thing, but then the story just leaves you scratching your head, right?

I mean, it's a bummer when you're trying to follow along, but the plot is just all over the place, and you're left feeling like you missed the memo on what's actually happening. And don't even get me started on trying to remember all those names and keep track of who's who! It's like a mental workout trying to piece it all together, and let's be real, that's not exactly the kind of exercise we signed up for when we hit play.

And let's not forget about the action and chase scenes. I mean, those are supposed to be the heart-pounding, edge-of-your-seat moments that get your adrenaline pumping, but if they're falling flat and leaving you yawning instead, then what's the point? It's like, if you're gonna do action, do it right, you know?

So, yeah, it's a real shame when you're all set to enjoy a movie, especially when you're a fan of the actors involved, only to end up feeling like you wasted your time. It's like a missed opportunity to showcase their talents in a way that really shines. But hey, not every movie can be a winner, right? Just gotta chalk this one up to experience and maybe steer clear of this flick in the future. Life's too short to spend it on movies that leave you feeling meh.

Kira & El Gin (2022)

When Movies Fall Short

[5/10 · 20 April 2024]

Honestly, I couldn't agree more with this comment. I mean, I get that movies sometimes take creative liberties with historical events for the sake of entertainment, but when they completely butcher the facts, it's just frustrating. And don't even get me started on the acting. It's like some of the actors didn't even bother to put in any effort. I mean, come on, at least try to make it believable! And the foreign actors? Ugh, it's like they didn't even bother to learn the language properly. It's so cringeworthy to watch. And let's not forget about the pacing. It's all over the place! I couldn't tell if I was watching a fast-paced action movie or a slow-burn drama. It was just so inconsistent. Overall, I was pretty disappointed with this movie. It had so much potential, but it just fell flat in so many areas. Oh well, you win some, you lose some, right?

30 Years Ago (2016)

Wealth's Woe

[9/10 · 19 April 2024]

"Curse of Wealth" is a film that really caught my attention with its exploration of family dynamics and the consequences of greed. Sherif Mounir's portrayal of Omar was so captivating and really drew me into the story. And Ahmed El Sakka's performance as Emad added another layer of complexity to the narrative.

The plot of the film had me hooked from the start, with the curse adding a thrilling element to the story. The tension kept building throughout, and I found myself on the edge of my seat waiting to see what would happen next. The cinematography and soundtrack really added to the eerie atmosphere, making the whole experience even more intense.

However, I have to agree that the ending was a bit of a letdown. It was unexpected, for sure, but it left me feeling unsatisfied and a little disappointed. I think a more fulfilling conclusion would have really elevated the film to another level.

Despite the ending, I still think "Curse of Wealth" is a solid film. The performances were top-notch, the storyline was engaging, and the direction was spot-on. I would give it a 9 out of 10 overall. But that ending... it's definitely something that will stick with me for a while.

3 El Zero (2023)

From Zero to Zilch

[1/10 · 19 April 2024]

Honestly, the movie "On Zero" didn't resonate with me at all. It didn't impress me; rather, quite the opposite-I felt extreme annoyance and disdain towards it. For me, this film was a bad experience by all standards.

Firstly, the storyline didn't even reach the level of average expectations, and despite the efforts of the actors, the script and dialogues were shallow and lacking depth.

Moreover, I wasn't impressed by the directorial choices and how they handled the situations and developments in the story. Some of the violent scenes were overly sensationalized to the point of gratuitousness, without any real added value.

In the end, I couldn't find any positive aspect that justifies the time spent watching this film. For me, it was a wholly negative experience, and I can't recommend it to anyone, not even to fans of action and thriller movies. That story certainly isn't a cinematic experience worth investing in. My rating for this film is 1/10.

Mar3y El Breemo (2023)

Shining Bright or Losing Luster

[5/10 · 19 April 2024]

Marei El Breemo is an Egyptian comedy film that tells the story of Marei, a watermelon seller who inherits a fortune in diamonds.

The film is a light and entertaining comedy with a good pace. Mohamed Henedy is in good form as Marei, and he is well-supported by the rest of the cast. The film is also visually appealing, with some beautiful shots of the Egyptian countryside.

However, the film is not without its flaws. The plot is a bit predictable, and the characters are not particularly well-developed. Additionally, the film's humor is sometimes a bit too broad and relies on stereotypes.

Overall, Marei El Breemo is a fun and harmless comedy that will provide a few laughs. However, it is not a must-see film, and it is likely to be quickly forgotten.

Strengths:

Light and entertaining Good pace Beautiful shots of the Egyptian countryside

Weaknesses:

Predictable plot Underdeveloped characters Broad humor that relies on stereotypes

If you are looking for a light and entertaining comedy to watch, then Marei El Breemo is worth checking out. However, if you are looking for a more thought-provoking or character-driven film, then you may want to look elsewhere.

Aamil Sefer (2023)

From Zero to Hero

[5/10 · 19 April 2024]

Agent Zero (2023) is like a rollercoaster ride through the vibrant world of Egyptian action comedy, where the lines between heroism and hilarity blur in the most delightful way possible.

At the heart of the movie is Saqr Abdel Latif Shadad El Hmaim (played by the charismatic Akram Hosny), an ordinary security guard with extraordinary dreams of becoming a legendary hero akin to the iconic James Bond. Little does he know that his mundane life is about to take a sharp turn into the realm of espionage and danger, transforming him into the enigmatic "Agent Zero." As Saqr navigates through a series of comedic mishaps and thrilling escapades in his quest to fulfill his mission and save the world, audiences are taken on a whirlwind adventure filled with laughter, action, and heart.

One of the standout aspects of Agent Zero is undoubtedly its exhilarating action sequences that keep viewers on the edge of their seats, coupled with Akram Hosny's impeccable comedic timing that adds a layer of charm and humor to the film. The blend of adrenaline-pumping moments and laugh-out-loud comedy creates a unique viewing experience that is both engaging and enjoyable.

However, amidst all the fun and excitement, some viewers have pointed out the film's reliance on a somewhat predictable plot and its lack of groundbreaking originality. While Agent Zero may not break new ground in terms of storytelling, it more than makes up for it with its sheer entertainment value and the sheer joy it brings to audiences.

In conclusion, Agent Zero is a cinematic treat for fans of action comedies, offering a delightful mix of humor, action, and entertainment. While it may not revolutionize the genre, it certainly succeeds in delivering a good time and showcasing the talents of the Egyptian film industry. So, grab your popcorn, buckle up, and get ready to join Saqr on his hilarious and action-packed journey as Agent Zero - a film that may not go down in history as a classic but will surely leave you with a smile on your face and a skip in your step.

Another One (2022)

Finding Second Chances

[10/10 · 16 April 2024]

Oh boy, where do I even begin with this film? Let me tell you, I was on the edge of my seat the whole time, and not just because I couldn't find the remote to pause it for a bathroom break. Ahmed Helmy's performance as Mustafa was just top-notch. I mean, the guy had me laughing one minute and tearing up the next. Talk about range!

And can we talk about the writing and directing? It was like a rollercoaster of emotions, but in a good way. The story had me hooked from the start, and the characters felt so real and relatable. I even found myself rooting for Mustafa and his journey of self-belief and second chances. I mean, who knew a comedy could be so heartwarming and inspiring?

Overall, I have to say, Another One really hit the mark for me. It's like a warm hug on a cold day, or a funny meme in a sea of political rants. It's the kind of film that sticks with you, like that piece of gum you accidentally stepped on and now it's stuck to your shoe forever. But in a good way, of course.

So yeah, if you're looking for a film that will make you laugh, cry, and maybe even rethink your whole outlook on life, then Another One is definitely worth a watch. I give it a solid 10 out of 10 stars, and that's saying something coming from a tough critic like me. Trust me, you won't regret it.

Tarzan & Jane (2002 Video)

The Legacy Continues

[8/10 · 14 April 2024]

While not quite as good as the original (which is a tough act to follow, given that I first saw it on YouTube and then in the cinema back in '99), I don't think it deserves all the harsh criticism it gets.

Like many Disney movies, there are elements that may go over the heads of young children, like the nod to a "love triangle" made by Tantor later in the film.

It's not a must-see for those seeking the same magic as the original "Tarzan," but it's worth a watch if you're in the mood for some light entertainment.

I'd rate it a 7 out of 10 because it did manage to bring a smile to my face now and then, no small achievement considering Disney's recent reliance on large-scale CGI spectacles that often miss the mark.

Tarzan II (2005 Video)

Revisiting the Jungle

[7/10 · 14 April 2024]

A significant improvement over 2002's 'Tarzan & Jane' - this is a proper sequel. Impressive what can be achieved with effort, right Disney?

'Tarzan II' may not reach the heights of the original 1999 film, but this third installment (despite the misleading title) in the series is actually quite good. There is a consistent storyline, albeit a prequel, and the return of Glenn Close (Kala) and Lance Henriksen (Kerchak) onscreen, with Phil Collins providing the music.

The plot is simple yet enjoyable, with heart, meaning, and decent humor. It could be better, but I still appreciate its contribution.

A worthy return to the 'Tarzan' universe, unlike its predecessor.

DC League of Super-Pets (2022)

Between Chuckles and Eye-Rolls

[7/10 · 14 April 2024]

The movie's trailer consistently made me groan in recent months. Surprisingly, the trailer highlights some of the movie's weakest aspects.

My main gripe lies in the humor, which often falls flat. Jokes are incessantly forced, appearing every 10 seconds, regardless of their quality. It's not a matter of "kid-humor" that eluded me as a 25-year-old; even the young audience members in my theater remained mostly silent.

Nevertheless, approximately 10% of the jokes resonated with me, prompting genuine belly laughs unexpectedly.

The standout aspect of this film, for me, was its characters. Each character possesses distinct traits, quirks, and flaws that they navigate emotionally throughout the narrative.

Despite its formulaic, cliched, and predictable nature, the movie remains engaging, offering cathartic moments in nearly every scene for at least one character. Remarkably, I found myself invested in these animal characters, despite the film's absurdity.

While nothing groundbreaking, the movie's vibrant and competent execution earns it some merit. It may not be entirely original, but its colorful presentation and solid execution make it a decent watch.

Spending an hour and a half on this film isn't the worst way to relax on a weekend with the family.

The Truman Show (1998)

More Than Just Funny

[9/10 · 13 April 2024]

I have never liked Jim Carrey's humor. I have found it to be very broad and boorish. However, I was pleasantly surprised when I saw "The Truman Show" despite my feelings about his earlier 'comedies'. Carrey showed he could act and not overdo it, a tribute to his talents as well as the director and writer. With a weaker director, Carrey might have resorted to seeking laughs in numerous crazy ways. Here, however, it's straightforward and quite endearing. I could delve into the plot, but there are already countless reviews for this one. The bottom line is, don't assume that if you didn't like "Dumb and Dumber" or "Ace Ventura", you won't love this film. I truly loved "The Truman Show" and believe it's a beautiful film with a lot of heart and a great deal of imagination.

Similarly, I would say the same things about Will Ferrell and Adam Sandler. Despite disliking some of their broader films, their serious works (like "Reign Over Me" or "Stranger Than Fiction") are exceptional. I must also confess that I did enjoy a few of their 'silly' films such as "Water Boy" and "Talladega Nights". So, don't assume that just because you may not like a few of their films, all of them are not to your taste.

The Emperor's New Groove (2000)

Laugh Till You Cry

[8/10 · 13 April 2024]

Disney has once again delivered a HILARIOUS HILARIOUS HILARIOUS HILARIOUS (how many hilarious is that? 4?...not enough) HILARIOUS HILARIOUS HILARIOUS (you get the point) movie.

Imagine this. 2 buddies and I step into a nearby video store and begin debating the LATEST releases. Scary movie? No. Slasher film? No. Drama? No. And so on. Eventually, as if by destiny, we find ourselves in the Disney/Children section of the store. Someone suggests "Emperor's New Groove". The others immediately concur... and we were not disappointed.

David Spade shines as the voice of the Emperor in this film. His wit was certainly evident throughout the entire movie. Speaking of the humor... it was amusing. Ha, ha. Am I not a joker? But seriously, I must say that this is the most amusing Disney film I've ever watched... and it's definitely due to the cast... who excelled in all their roles. There was quite a bit of adult humor in this one though. Nothing crude or sexually explicit or anything, but rather mature... clever... making it a fantastic watch.

If you haven't watched this yet, then I recommend that you do... and soon.

Finding Dory (2016)

Underwater Adventure Redux

[8/10 · 13 April 2024]

This is an excellent sequel, seamlessly integrating familiar characters with new ones, ensuring a fresh and engaging experience. It doesn't require a forgetful nature like Dory's to appreciate its charm. While watching the predecessor (Finding Nemo) adds depth, it stands strongly on its own. The characters are well-defined, with clever side jokes woven throughout. Humans play minor roles, allowing the focus to remain on the main cast. A particular voice stands out, possibly hinting at a writer's or Ellen's admiration. Nonetheless, it's a commendable effort by all involved, resulting in a truly enjoyable film.

A Bug's Life (1998)

A Symphony of Humor and Heart

[10/10 · 13 April 2024]

"A Bug's Life" is akin to a beloved candy bar - brimming with delightful little elements that culminate in something truly delicious.

The narrative couldn't have been more compelling; it's witty, emotionally resonant, and each character undergoes a satisfying evolution. In contrast, in "Toy Story," only Buzz, who embraces his role as a toy, and Woody, who overcomes his jealousy of Buzz, experience growth. "A Bug's Life" is filled with humor and endearing moments. The voice acting by all the performers is exceptional, and the animation, in terms of movement and intricacy, is outstanding.

As a discerning movie enthusiast, I don't easily assign "10s," but this film undeniably merits the perfect score I bestowed upon it.

Tarzan (1999)

Jungle Symphony

[10/10 · 13 April 2024]

This ranks alongside 'The Lion King' and 'Mulan'. I had the pleasure of watching this last night, and to my surprise, even the young children in the audience enjoyed it! While many have praised its groundbreaking animation, the storytelling is equally remarkable. Tarzan emerges as the first genuinely complex male character in Disney since ... I struggle to recall another Disney male character as deep, aside from maybe Simba from The Lion King. Tarzan embodies qualities that remind us, despite his ape upbringing, of his undeniable humanity; even his upbringing cannot conceal this. (Imagine being raised believing you are an ape your whole life, only to discover suddenly that you are something entirely different-wouldn't that unsettle you too?)

From start to finish, every scene was captivating. The backstories of Tarzan and the ape Kala were conveyed succinctly, poignantly, and with great emotion. Intelligent humor and affectionate moments enhance the film, while the evident bond between Tarzan and Jane is heartwarming. Some claim they are not in love, but I strongly disagree. Their interactions are humorous and suggest a strong attraction (beyond Jane's interest in studying apes). Even Jane's father, though a minor character, contributes to the plot, injecting humor into the narrative. (When Jane describes Tarzan to him by drawing a picture on a blackboard and gets lost in admiration of his 'wonderful eyes', her father interjects, "Would you two like some privacy?" Hilarious!)

Clayton may not be a Jafar or a Gaston, but he isn't the primary antagonist; rather, he serves as a foil for Tarzan's internal conflict. The true adversary is Tarzan's struggle between his 'true' world (with humans) and the one he has known (with apes). Clayton merely poses a threat to Tarzan's ape family. Unlike traditional villains who directly challenge the hero, Clayton embodies a more nuanced threat. This realism is refreshing compared to the typical megalomaniacal villains in animated features.

I adored Phil Collins' contribution. While Ariel's singing is delightful, the background music suited this movie better. It's hard to imagine Jane or Tarzan breaking into song; it would detract from the realism of the narrative.

Tarzan himself is magnificent! Charismatic, emotional, extroverted, yet also goofy and youthful. The tender moments between him and his ape mother, Kala, are touching. Such genuine emotions are rarely seen in live-action films. Even Kerchak ... let me share my thoughts on him. My mother believed he was authentic. I don't view him as excessively cruel; he felt threatened by Tarzan's presence, not out of a sense of superiority. When Kala introduces baby Tarzan to him, Kerchak is concerned about the potential danger posed by other humans in the jungle, which could jeopardize his ape family. His fears are rooted in protecting his family, and despite his stoic demeanor following the loss of his own baby ape at the movie's outset, he is not prepared to immediately embrace another infant (If you lost a child, would you readily adopt another? I doubt it).

'The Lion King', 'Mulan', and 'Tarzan' share a common thread; they all exemplify genuine emotion and character, unlike the simplistic fairy tale narratives such as Cinderella and Bambi (no disrespect to fairy tales, but I appreciate more true-to-life content, you see?).

This is a must-see. If Disney maintains this level of quality, adults might reconsider their perceptions of animated content. It's not just for young children anymore! :)

Avatar: The Way of Water (2022)

Navigating the Shallows

[6/10 · 7 April 2024]

The primary strength of the initial Avatar film definitely wasn't its narrative (a futuristic retelling of Pocahontas, etc. - I'd rate it an 8), so I wasn't anticipating a complex storyline or anything substantial. As anticipated, the plot isn't noteworthy or remarkable. The Way of Water isn't a bad experience; the effects are good, production quality is excellent. I'd venture to say that if you enjoyed the first one, you'll probably like this one too. Overall, I was entertained, but there were some drawn-out parts; some trimming (as seen in many current productions) could have enhanced The Way of Water. The novelty seen in films like the original Matrix, Sin City, and Avatar is missing - it's predictable. I must admit, at times I was a bit bored, feeling like I was watching a (well-crafted) video game cinematic. In my view, the media tends to overly praise this work by James Cameron, much like they did with Denis Villeneuve's Dune remake. Eye-catching? Yes. Cinematic masterpieces? No.

1917 (2019)

A Visual Feast with Narrative Hiccups

[7/10 · 6 April 2024]

It still wasn't entirely satisfying to me.

The story is essentially about delivering a message, which is fine; not every film needs a complex plot. However, it shouldn't drag on too much and should maintain a quicker pace, offering consistently engaging visuals. The repeated sight of stapled corpses becomes dull after a while.

My main gripe with the movie was the excessive reliance on coincidences. Firstly, the Germans meticulously clean up after themselves but conveniently leave behind one cow and a single milk bucket. This leads to the protagonist stumbling upon the exact house with a baby in need of that milk. Then there's the rat that conveniently triggers the trap just as our heroes are present. The arrival of the plane, landing right at the feet of our protagonists, and their decision to aid the German soldier (for unclear reasons) ultimately results in Blake's demise.

Despite these flaws, the movie was visually stunning and a treat for the eyes. However, the abundance of issues prevented it from truly shining in my eyes.

The Mask (1994)

Unmasking Laughter

[9/10 · 4 April 2024]

Back in the day, the hit TV show In Living Color featured stars like Jim Carrey. Known for his goofy persona and crazy physical comedy routines, Carrey made a mark with his 1994 smash hit The Mask. I vividly recall watching this movie at 9 and laughing uncontrollably in the theater. The desire to own it on VHS was strong, and my parents fulfilled it. Carrey's unique comedic style in The Mask truly highlighted his talents.

The film follows Stanley Ipkiss, a shy, unlucky romantic who faces bullying from various quarters, including his boss, landlady, and car mechanics. His companions are his dog Milo and co-worker Charlie Schumacher. Infatuated with Tina, a new client at his bank, Stanley's life takes a turn when he discovers a mysterious wooden mask at the city's harbor. When he puts it on, he transforms into "The Mask," a zany, green-headed character unbound by inhibitions or laws, seeking revenge on his tormentors and scaring off a street gang.

Even today, The Mask remains a favorite in my DVD collection. Jim Carrey's performance, especially his Cuban Pete act and salsa dance with the cops, is a riot. Cameron Diaz shines in her debut role, exuding beauty and charm. Peter Greene's portrayal of the villain Dorian is chilling, especially when he transforms with the mask. The dog's transformation into the mask provides classic slapstick humor reminiscent of the Three Stooges. A timeless classic, The Mask is a must-watch for a good laugh and a stellar Jim Carrey experience, still ranking high on my list of favorites.

Wednesday (2022– )

Between Expectation and Reality

[5/10 · 2 April 2024]

It was decent, but I wasn't a fan.

I'm not entirely sure about Burton's level of involvement in this project. It didn't quite have his distinctive touch, despite him supposedly directing it. Multiple directors' names appearing in the credits raised some questions.

I was initially intrigued when I learned Tim was connected to it, but it leaned too much into "teen high school drama" for my taste.

Jenna Ortega's portrayal of Wednesday was a highlight for me. Uncle Fester was decent, and Thing, well, he's a hand. However, the casting for the other Addams family members didn't quite capture their essence in my opinion.

While the series had its moments, overall it didn't meet my expectations and left me somewhat disappointed.

Money Heist (2017–2021)

Cracking the Vault of Excellence

[9/10 · 2 April 2024]

I've been hearing about Money Heist's greatness since it began in 2017, but for some reason, I delayed watching it. I finally gave in and started watching it recently, and now I can't stop. It lives up to all the hype. Some parts are incredibly far-fetched, but that doesn't take away from the enjoyment. The writing and acting are top-notch, with numerous twists and surprises that will keep you engaged and guessing throughout the series. It's a Spanish show, but you can choose to watch it with subtitles or in English dubbing. Just a heads up... once you start, it's tough to stop. You'll be tempted to binge-watch it all at once!

Arcane (2021– )

The Great Deception

[7/10 · 10 March 2024]

Impressive animation. The show is decent but lacks uniqueness. It follows a typical mainstream formula with uninspired dialogue and storyline. However, it is executed in a polished manner. The target audience seems to be teenagers (13-15 years old). As an adult viewer, I didn't find it particularly engaging.

It's interesting to note the abundance of reviews simply stating "AMAZING" or "You have to see it!!!" with high ratings of "14/14 found this helpful," offering little substance.

Conversely, reviews that provide constructive criticism and useful insights receive low ratings like "0/6 found this helpful." This seems like astroturfing. I wonder how many will mark this review as unhelpful just because it offers a balanced perspective.

The current high rating seems unsustainable for a show that isn't a 9.5/10 or close. Who are these reviewers? Who employs them? What's the purpose behind this? It's intriguing how this phenomenon is specific to this show, unlike others on Netflix. These questions pose a greater mystery than the show itself.

AlRawabi School for Girls (2021–2024)

The Untold Stories of Jordan's Schoolgirls

[10/10 · 25 February 2024]

An exceptional piece of storytelling, this mini-series delves into the grim realities of bullying and the pervasive influence of abusive authority figures on school-aged girls in Jordan. It sheds light on the experiences of girls navigating a deeply sexist and misogynistic society, where fear of violence and familial retribution is commonplace. From objectification to victim-blaming, the show starkly illustrates the myriad challenges faced by young girls. It skillfully unveils the distorted priorities of Jordanian and Middle Eastern societies regarding women's rights, depicting how girls are often broken at home and further fractured in school. Notably, it refrains from using the 'broken glass panel analogy' to caution against mistreating these girls to the point of shattering their spirits.

The Boys (2019– )

A Gritty and Unapologetic Take on Superheroes

[10/10 · 11 February 2024]

There's not much more to say about The Boys that hasn't already been said. It's just an awesome show! It's quickly become one of my favorite new shows in years! I binged the entire first two seasons in just a few days when they first came out and rewatched them before Season 3 came out. I was expecting a slight drop in quality for Season 3 because Seasons 1 and 2 were so great, and there is a little drop, but it's still a very good show! It takes everything you loved about Seasons 1 and 2 (the violence, humor, heart, craziness, character development, etc.) and takes it all to a whole new level! This show has such an original take on the Superhero genre that is both exciting and hilarious! I can't recommend this show enough! Just a warning though...once you start watching, it's hard to stop. Give yourself enough time because you'll want to binge it as quickly as possible!

Better Call Saul (2015–2022)

Sluggish Pacing and Overextended Scenes

[6/10 · 29 January 2024]

The pacing of the scenes is drawn out, with extended moments of people simply observing or cars in motion. The addition of music seems intended to enhance the experience but instead contributes to a slow overall pace. Fast-forwarding through the six seasons became a necessity, as numerous irrelevant subplots added unnecessary length. The series could have condensed into two seasons with more engaging storytelling. Unrealistic elements, including gun battles and legal proceedings, detract from the overall experience. Despite commendable acting and a decent plot, the lackluster filming and editing diminish its potential. A rating of 6 reflects these shortcomings, with significant portions that could have been omitted for a more compelling narrative.

Breaking Bad (2008–2013)

Chemistry of Chaos

[9/10 · 11 January 2024]

Bryan Cranston's resurgence is here. Once praised for his role in Malcolm In The Middle, he had yet to find a suitable platform for his unique talents. He possesses the rare ability to evoke both sympathy and manic energy simultaneously.

For those quick to dismiss this show as a Weeds imitation, consider that Breaking Bad is an entirely different beast. It delves into the same themes, portraying the realistic struggles of middle-class life in the United States, often leading individuals to extreme measures for survival. Take, for instance, the mother-daughter duo who robbed a bank. However, the weed-selling escapades of Showtime's hit series are nothing like "Bad." The pilot episode is as close to perfect as they come, with much of the credit going to Bryan Cranston's performance.

Cranston takes on the role of Walter White, a chemistry teacher. He has a loving wife, a child with cerebral palsy, and another on the way. On top of it all, he is battling terminal lung cancer, despite having "never smoked." With his finances in disarray, this once brilliant scientist turns to a life of crime to resolve his problems.

He begins producing crystal meth with a former delinquent student. From the very first episode, the show heads towards a dark, yet truthful place. This is a no-nonsense dark comedy.

For fans of Tarantino or the Coen brothers, this may be right up your alley.